


\' 



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1 \iii M1U1U]\ 




PICTORIAL HISTORY 




WITH NOTICES OF 



OTHER PORTIONS OF AMERICA NORTH AND SOUTi! 
BY S. G. 'GOODRICH, 

ilTTHOR OF PETER PARLE y'S TALES, ETC., ETC. 

FOR THE USE OF SCHOOLS AND FA.^IILIES. 



A NEW EDITION. 



//^/ 



PHILADELPHIA : 
PUBLISHED BY E. H. BUTLER & CO. 

1866, 



S^ht-^^y-^/f^T^ 



PREFACE TO THE NEW EDITION. 



This work was originally pnLlished about fifteen years ago, since 
wliich time nearly 500,000 copies have been sold. The decided and 
continuous approbation indicated by these facts, has stimulated the 
author and publisher to bestow upon it a careful revision, with a view 
to meet the constantly improving taste of the public in respect to edu- 
cational works. 

In the present edition, the original form of the work has been pre- 
served, but numerous additions have been made, either for the purpose 
of perfecting certain portions and passages, or in order to bring down 
the train of events to the present time, A large number of illustrative 
notes have been appended to the pages, and at the end of the work 
will be found the Declaration of Inde'pendence, the Articles of Confed- 
eration^ adopted during the Revolutionary period, and the Constitution 
of the United States^ together with a full Index of proper names. 

While, therefore, the original design of this work, which was to 
make it primarily a book for schools^interesting to the pupil and 
easy to be learned, yet leaving vivid and abiding impressions on the 
memory — has been kept steadily in view, it is believed that, as now 
presented, it will i)rove to be a convenient and useful manual for the 
family, and the general reader. 

2, ^ 



"1 



Entered, according to the Act of Cop.giess, Irf the year 1843, by S. G. GOODRICH, In the Clerk's 
Office of the District Court for the District of Massachusetts 

Entered, according to the Act of Congress, in the year 1854, by S. G. GOODRICH, in the Clerk's 
Office of the District Court for the Southern District of New York. 

Entered, according to the Act of Congress, in the year 1859, by S. Q. GOODRICH, in the Clerk's 
Office of the District Court for the Southern District of New York. 

Entered, according to the Act of Congress, in the year 1865, by 

The Heirs of S. G. GOODRICH, 

In the Clerk's OflBoe of the District Court for the Southern District of New York. 



Department of Public Instruction, 

Baltimore, Md., July 22d, 1865, 
At a meeting of the State Board of Education, held this day, " Goodrich's Pictorial 
History of the United States" was adopted as a Text-Book to be used in the Public 
Schools throughout the State. 



N -^ 



-7 W. HORACE SOPER. 

t V*^ t^ Clerk. 



CONTENTS 



INTEODUCTIOX. page 
CHAPTER I. Early Settlement of Asia, Africa, and Eurupe. Progress of Navigai ion. 11, 
II. Sailors of Scandinavia. Vasco da G-ama. Spectre'of the tape. Im- 
provement of Navigation.' Columbus. Madoc 14 

III. Discovery and Settlement of the Nonhmen in North America 14 

IV. About Christopher Columbus. Plis plans for making discoveries. 

His cause espoused by the King and Queen of Spain 18 

Y. First Voyage of Columbus across the Atlantic. His Discovery of 

America. 21 

VI. The other Voyages of Columbus 26 

VII. ( >ther Discoveries in America by the English, i'ortuguese, and French. 27 
VIII. Various Discoveries in North America The Voyage of Verrazani. 

Discoveries of Cartier. Ponce de Leon. De Soto. Si r" Walter Kaleigh. 2S 

IX. The Native Inhabitants of the New World. Its Plants and Animals. 80 

UNITED STATES. 
X. An English Colony sent out to Virginia. .Settlement at Jamestown. 32 
XI. Visit to Powhatan. Account of the Indians in this Quarter. Sad 

Condition of the Colony ,36 

XII. Captain John Smith. His remarkable Liie and Adventures. He joins 

the Expedition to Virginia. iMakes Treaties with the Indians, 'etc.. 37 

XIII. Captain Smith goes on an Exploring Voyage. He is taken Prisoner, 

and carried before Powhatan. 39 

XIV. The Story of Pocahontas. She saves Captain Smith's Life, and be- 

comes the Friend of the English. She is married to Jlolfe 40 

XV. Depressed State of the Colonj^. Arrival of Captain Newport and more 

Emigrants. The Gold Fever. Smith's Voyage of Discovery 43 

XVI. Increase of the Colony. Smith's Administration of the Government. 

Failure of his Health. His Eeturn to England 45 

XVII. The Colony on the Verge of Ruin. Preparations to abandon James- 
town. Lord Delaware. His new and successful Government 47 

itVIII. Progress of the Colony at Jamestown. Lord Delaware's Govern- 
ment. Administration of Governor Dale 49 

XIX. Discoveries of Henry Hudson. Settlement of New York by the Dutch. 51 
XX. Various Settlements in New England. Captain Smith's Survey of 

the Coast ". 52 

XXI. The Puritans the first Settlers of New England 55 

XXII. The Puritans at Cape Cod '57 

/J:XIII. Further Surveys of the Shore. Indians. The Landing at Plymouth. 59 
XXIV. Settlement of Plymouth. Two men get lost in the Woods, and are 

greatly frightened by the Wolves . . 61 

XXV. Severe Sufferings of the Plymouth Colonists .' 62 

XXVL Arrival of the Indian Samoset. Treaty with the Massacliusetts and 

other Indian Tribes g4 

XXVII. The Colony threatened by the Narraganset Indians. Drought and 

Scarcity. Governor Bradturd juurn(_n-s among the Indians 66 

XXVIIL Progress of the Virginia Colony. Opechancaiiough's Plot and the 

Massacre of 1022. The Massacre of 1644 T 68 

XXIX. Seiilement at Weymouth. Captain Standish chastises the india'ns. 

Other Settlements. Incorporation of Massachusetts Bay Colony. . 70 

XXX. Settlement of New Hampshire. Other Events in this State 72 

XXXI. Government of the Colonies. Union of the Colonies of Plymouth and 

Massachusetts Bay 73 

XXXII. History of Maryland. Lord Baltimore's Visit to America. Leonard 

Calvert's Arrival. Settlement of Maiyland. Clayborne's Rebellion. 76 

XXXIII. Various Settlements in Connecticut. Opposition of the Dutch. A 

Singular Journey across the Wilderness . 7S 

XXXIV. Roger Williams. He is banished from Massachusetts, and settles in 

Rhode Island. The Rhode Island and Providence Plantations 80 

XXXV. War wiih the Pequod Indians. The Battle at Mystic River. Burn- 
ing of the Indian Fort. Utter Defeat of the Pequods 82 

XXXVL Anecdotes of the Pequod War. The Indian Chiefs Uncas and Sassa- 

cus. The Beneficent Conduct of Roger Williams. . 84 

1* 



Q CONTENTS. 

CHAPTER ,, , . ^^ ^^^'=1^ 

XXXVII. Settlement of New Haven. Mr. Davenport and his Associates. Otner 

Seiilements in Connecticut. Eartliquakes. 85 

XXXVIII. Union of the New England Colonics 88 

XXXIX. General Kemarks on the Indians. The Tribes of New England. 91 
XL. The Eight Families of Indians— Algonquins, Huron Iroquois. Dah- 
ko'ahs, Ca;awbas, (Jherokees. lichees, Choctaws, and Natches 

Their Character. Manners, ( Customs, etc 94 

XLI. Evangelizing I he Indians in New England. The Mayhews. Eliot. 93 

XLII. Witchcraft in New England lOU 

XLI II. Hisi ory of New York from 1610 to i he French and Indian War ] ('2 

XLIV. History of New Jersey from its first seiilement to the lievolution ... 105 
XLV. History of Delaware. Design of Gustavus Adolj)hus. Seiilement on 
Christiana Creek. Foun('lingof the Swedish Colony. Its Conquest 

by ihe Dutch. Other events 106 

XLVI. Settlement of the Carolinas lOT 

XLVII. History of New England continued. The War with King Philip 109 

XJA''III. Coninuation of the History of New England. Events of the War 

Avith Philip Ill 

XLIX. Various Events of the War. Death of Philip •.. 112 

L. Re urn to the History of Virginia. Bacon's Rebellion 114 

LI. Rflieious Persecution in New England 110 

LII. His ory of Pennsylvania. Penn. His Settlement. His Treaty 118 

LIII. Affairs of New England. Governor Andros and the ( barter Oak 121 

LIV. The Revolu.ion in England. Governor Andros and his Associates 

transDorted lo England. Events of King William's War 122 

LV. Story of Governor Fletcher and Captain Wadsworth 121 

LVI. Religion in the Colonies 1-6 

LVII. Educa ion in the Colonies 128 

LVIII. The War of Queen Anne. Capture of Port Royal. Abortive Expe- 

diiion against Cannda. Indian Depredations 129 

LIX. The War ai the South. Unsuccessful Attempt against the Spanish 
Possessions in Florida. The Apalachian Indians subdued. Arrival 

of I he Palaiinai es. Indian Massacre 131 

LX. The Yamasee War. Great Indian League. Severe Conflict. The 

Indians Defeated 1 33 

LXI. American Pirates. Wreck of the Whidah. Captain Kidd. Other Pirates. 134 
LXIL* Settlement of Georgia. Arrival of General Oglethorpe. Attack upon 

St. AuL'ustine. Attack and Repulse of the Spaniards 136 

LXIII George ll.'s War. Capture of Louisburg. Destructioa of the French 

Fleet. Peace of Aix-la-( hapelle. 1748 138 

LXIV. Progress of Ac: iculturo and Manufactures in the Colonies 140 

LXV. Sufferings of the Colonies. Expenses of New Yoik and New Eng- 
land in the War of 1744. Losses by Sea and Land. Prosperity at- 
tendant upon Peace 142 

LXVI. Discoveries in the West. The Mississippi and its branches explored 
by .loliet and Marquette. Explorations of La Salle and Father 

Hennepin 144 

LXVII. Settlements in the South and West; at Kaskaskia, in Illinois; in 
Louisiana; in Florida; in Michigan; at Natchez, on the Mississip- 
pi : on the Mobile River, in Alabama. Troubles between the Ohio 

Company and the French Governor of Canada 147 

LXVIII. George Washington begins his public cnreer. His Education and his 
Character in youth. He is sent as a Messenger to the French on 

the Ohio. Anecdotes of the journey 149 

LXIX. Washington and his band of Virginians march against the French. 

Battle at the Great Meadows 151 

LXX. The Union of the English Colonies in 1754. Attacks upon the French 

Colonies. Franklin's eminent services. Braddock's Defeat 15.^ 

LXXI. The French and Indian War. Plan of the Colonists for taking Crown 
Point. Montcalm's capture of the Fort at Oswego, etc. Lord 
Chatham, British Minister. Louisburg recaptured. Abercrombie's 
disastrous Attack on Fort Ticonderoga. Capture of Forts Frontenac 

and Du Quesne. Great Indian Treaty 1 .'fi 

LXXII. Campaign of 1759. Quebec ( :aptured. Death of Wolfe and IMontcalm. 151) 
LXXIII. The French and Indian War concluded. The St. Francis In lians 
chastised. The Cherokees defeated. Surrender of the French 

North American < olouies to the British. Peace of 1763 161 

LXXIV. Review of the preceding History. The Thirteen Colonies. The Ap- 
proaching Conflict of the Colonies with the Mother Country. The 
S receding portion of this History, Colonial ; the succeeding portion, 
[ationar 168 



C ( ) N T E N T S . 7 

PAGB 

PERIOD OF EVENTS LEADING TO THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 

LXXV. Taxation of the Colonies. TheSiiirarAct _..,. 165 

LXXVI. The Stamp Act. Dr. Franl<.lin fa London. Patrick Henry's cele- 
brated Speech. A Congress of the Colonies 167 

LXXVII. Newspapers, Societies, and Mobs 169 

LXXVIIL Repeal of the Stamp Act 170 

LXXIX. George III. More Taxation. Petitions, ( irculars, Remonstrances. 

The British Custom-IIouse Oflicers Mobbed In Boston 172 

LXXX. British Troops in Boston. Great Excitement among the Colonists. 
Proposal of the British Parliament lo send Americans to England 

for trial. Resolutions of North Carolina and -Virginia - . . 174 

LXXXI. Repeal of obnoxious Duties. The Boston Massacre 176 

LXXXII. Continuation of Difficulties. The Regulators of North Carolina. 

Burning of the Gaspee. Committees of Correspondence 178 

LXXXIII. The Tea thrown Overboard 379 

LXXXIV. The first Congress meet at Philadelphia in 1774 181 

LXXXV. The rising Spirit of Liberty. The Boston Boys. General Gage 182 

PERIOD OF THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 

LXXXVI. Preparations for War. The Massachusetts Provincial f'ongress. 
Similar Assemblies in other Colonies. Dr. Franklin removed from 

the office of Postmaster-General 18,S 

LXXXVII. Battle of Lexington 185 

XiXXXVIII. Capture of 'I iconderosa and Crown Point ISS 

LXXXIX. Vermont and Ethan Allen . .189 

XC. Baule of Banker's Hill 191 

XCI. General Putnam 195 

XCII. Second Continental Congress. Washington at the head of the Army. 197 
XCIII Attack on Quebec. Death of Montgomery. Governor Dunmore's 

Opera ions in Virginia 190 

XCIV. Anecdotes and Incidents of Arnold's Expedition to Quebec' 201 

XCV. The Hessian troops hired and sent to America. General Howe suc- 
ceeds General Gage. The British driven from Boston 203 

XCVI. The British mediiaie an At ack on New York and also on Charleston. 

Bat lie at Sullivan's Island 206 

XCVII. Declaration of Independence 207 

XCVIII. The Bri; ish Plan of Attack on New York. Baule of Long Island. ... 210 

XCIX. Battle of White Plains. Retreat of Washington. 213 

C. Battle at Trenton 215 

CI. Battle near Princeton 217 

CII. A ttack on Danbury 219 

cm. Battle of the Brandywine 220 

CIV. < apture of General Prescott, in Rhode Island . . 222 

CV. Events in the North. Approach of Burgoyne. Murder of Miss 

McRea. Attack upon Fort Schuyler '. 224 

CVI. Progress of Burgoyne. Battle of Bennington. Battle of Stillwater.. 225 

CVII. Capture of Burgoyne ". . 2*^9 

CVIII. The AVar on the'Ocean '....'.'..'..'.'.'. 23(i 

CIX. Exploits of Paul Jones 232 

ex. Battle of Germantown ' 234 

CXI, The Confederation. The Stars and Stripes adopted. Treaty of Alli- 
ance with France. Treaty with the ( herokees. Valley Forge 236 

CXII. Evacuation of Philadel[.hia and Battle of Monmouth .\ 23r 

CXill. Life and Character of General Charles Lee 239 

CXIV. Events in Rhode Island 241 

CXV. Trumbull, the Artist .' ! 248 

CXVI. M assacre at Wyoming ' 245 

CXVII. Events in Georgia 247 

CXVIII. The British at Charleston ^248 

CXIX. Attack of the Americans on Savannah ..... 250 

CXX. Events in Connecticut. General Putnam 251 

CXXI. Anecdote of La Fayette 253 

CXXII. < ontinental Money 255 

CXXIII. Capture of Stony Point and Paulas Hook 257 

CXXIV. The Six Nations and other Indians 259 

CXXV. Surrender of Charleston. Other disastrous Events in the Soiith ....'." 261 
CXXVL Gates Commander of the Southern Army. Disastrous Battle near 
Camden. Various Events at the South and a' the North. Arrival 

of the French Fleet and Army under Rochambeau 268 

CXXYIL The Treason of Benedict Arnold 265 



8 CONTENTS. 

CHAPTER P^^? 

CXXVIII. Capture of Major Andre 267 

CXXIX. Execution of Hale and Palmer. Colonel Trumbull m London 2b9 

.CXXX. Arnold 1 n\ ades Virginia and New Uonrlon "-iTO 

CXXXl. Events at tke South 272 

CXXXII. Naval Operations 274 

CXXXIII. Surrender of Lord Cornwallis 2/^6 

CXXXIV. Treaty of Peace • 2(9 

CXXXV. Eflfects of the American Revolution ^oi 

CXXXVI. Debts of the Revolution. Discontentsof the People. Shay's Rebellion. 2S3 
CXXXVII. Formation and Adoption of the Constitution of the United States. 

Washington elected President . . 285 

WASHINGTON'S ADMINISTRATION. 
CXXXVIII. Beginning of the New Government. Washington's first Administration 

under the present Constitution. Proceedings of the first Congress. 288 

CXXXIX. Rise of Parties. Wars with the Indians 29U 

CXL. Kentucky admitted to the Union 292 

CXLI. Formation of various Societies in the United States 294 

CXLII. Washington's Second Election. The French Revolution. M. Genet's 

Operations. Jeft'erson's Resignation as Secretary of State 296 

CXLIII. Difiiculties with Great Britain 298 

CXLI V. The Whiskey Insurrection 299 

CXLV. Admission of Tennessee, the sixteenth state 301 

CXLVI. Changes in his Cabinet. Education in the Country 302 

JOHN ADAMS'S ADMINISTRATION. 

CXL VII. Prospects of a War M-ith France 804 

CXLVIII. The Public Health. Smallpox. Yellow Fever. Cholera 306 

JEFFERSON'S ADMINISTRATION. 
CXLIX. Choice of Jeflferson as President and Burr Vice-President, by Congress. 309 

CL. The Settlement of Ohio 310 

CLI. Cession of Indian Lands. Duel between Burr and Ilamili on 311 

CLIL War with Tripoli |^i2 

CLIII. Burr's Conspiracy '^l^ 

CLIV. Troubles with Great Britain. Orders in Council. Berlin Decree 316 

CLV. Attack on the Chesapeake 317 

MADISON'S ADMINISTRATION. 
CLVI. Madison's Inauguration. Affair of the Little Belt. Steamboat Navi- 
gation. Ocean Steam Navigation 320 

CLVIL Indian War. Battle of Tippecanoe 323 

CLVIII. War with Great Britain declared 325 

CLIX. General Hull's Surrender to the British at Detroit 326 

CLX. Capture of the Guerriere and the Alert 327 

CLXI. Attack on Queenstown 329 

CLXII. More Naval Victories ^31 

CLXIII. Louisiana admitted to the Union. Mediation of Russia between the 
United States and Great Britain offered. Madison Re-elected. 

Various Events of 1812 and 1813 332 

CLXIV. The Massacre at FrenchtoAvn 334 

CLXV. Capture of York, and Death of General Pike 335 

CLXVI. Siege of Fort Meigs. General Harrison's Defence 837 

CLXVII. The War on the Ocean 338 

CLXVIII. Battle on Lake Erie 340 

CLXIX. Battle at the Moravian Towns 341 

CLXX. Progress of the War in Canada 343 

CLXXI. War with the Creek Indians 344 

CLXXII. Russian Mediation otlered. Measures for Prosecuting the War 846 

CLXXIII. The War ..n the Ornm 347 

CLXXIV. Defeat of (niund W ilkinson. His Trial by Court-Martial 348 

CLXXV. The War at the North-West. Battles of Chippewa and Bridgewater. 

Siese of Fort Erie 349 

CLXXVI. City of Washington ( :aptured and Burned . 331 

CLXXVII. Battle near Baltimore 353 

CLXXVIII. The War on Lake (liainplain and in the vicinity. 354 

CLXXIX. Convention at HarHord 356 

t LXXX. Battle of New Orleans 358 

CLXXXI. Close of the War. TJie Dartmoor Massacre. The Peace of Ghent.. . 360 

CLXXXII. Difticultii-s with Algiers 361 

CLXXXIII. The second United States Bank. Indiana admitted into the Union.. . 368 



CONTENTS. 



PAGE 

CHAPTER MONEOE'S ADMIIflSTEATION. 

CLXXXIV. His Character and History. Daniel D. Tompkins, Vice-President. 

Mississippi admitted into the Union ._. 864 

CLXXXV War with the Seminoles. Illinois admitted into the iJnion. Com- 
mercial Treaty vv ith Sweden 366 

CLXXXVI. Treaties with Spain and Great Britain. Alabama admitted 86'/ 

CLXXXVII. The Slates of Maine and Missouri admitted into the Union. The 

Missouri Compromise j 869 

CLXXXVIII. Territorial Organization of Florida. History of Florida. Apportion- 
ment of Representatives in Congress at various epochs Slit' 

CLXXXIX. La Fayette in the United States 371 

JOHN QUINCY ADAMSES ADMINISTRATION. 

CXC. Difficulties with Georgia. Speculations and Bankruptcies of 1S25 £?4 

(JXCI. Death of Adams and Jefferson, etc 375 

JACKSON'S ADMINISTRATION. 
CXCII. His Election. Van Buren Vice-President. Death of John Jay. Nul- 
lification in South Carolina. Clay's t;ompromise Act 377 

CXCIII. His Northern Tour. Removal of the Deposits. His Second Term.. . 379 

CXtT V. State of Arkansas Indian Territory 381 

CX( v. Mr. Rives's Ti'eaty with France. The Florida or Seminole War 382 

CXCVI. The great Fire in New York, December, 1S35. Decease of Eminent 

Men, i .arroU of ( :arollton, Randolph of Roanoke, and John Marshall. 384 
CXCVII. Michigan admitted into the Union 386 

VAN BUEEN'S ADMINISTRATION. 
CXCVIII. The Extra Session of Congress of September, 1837. Commercial Dis- 
tress. Insurrection in Canada. The Border Difficulties in Maine.. 388 

CXCIX. The Canadian Rebellion. The Border Difficulties in Maine 39U 

CC. The Smithsonian Institute. The Patent-Office and General Post- 

Office Burned. The Exploring Expedition The Sub-Treasury.. . 892 

HARRISON'S ADMINISTRATION. 
CCI. The Democratic Party. The Whig Party. The "Harrison Cam- 
paign." Harrison and Tyler elected. Harrison's Death 895 

TYLER'S ADMINISTRATION, 
ecu. Measures of the Extra Session. Rupture of Tyler with his Cabinet 

and his Party. The Webster-Ashburton Trea"ty 398 

CCIIL The Tariff of 1842. The Dorr Rebellion. Fatal Explosion on the Potomac 400 
CCIV. Celebration of the Completion of the Bunker Hill Monument. Iowa 
and Florida admitted into the Union. Annexation of Texas; its 
admission into the Union 402 

POLK'S ADMINISTRATION. 

CCV. Death of General Jackson. His Character 404 

CCVI. The Mexican War. General Taylor's movements. Battles of Palo 

Alto and Resaca de la I 'alma 406 

CCVII. Declaration of War against Mexico. Preparations. Capture of Mon- 
terey by General 'rayloi'- Other j)laces taken by the Americans. 

California conquered "by Fremont and others 408 

CCVIII. The Battle of Buena Vista. c:apture of Vera Cruz. March on Mexico. 
Battle of Cerro Gordo. Victories of Contreras and Churubusco. 
The Arnustice. < apture of Chapultepec. Entrance of the Amer- 
ican iVrmyinto the City of Mexico. Treaty of Guadaloupe-Hidalgo. 

General Remarks on the Mexican War . T. . 409 

CCIX. Stipulations of the Treaty of Guadaloupe-Hidalgo. The Ore<ron 

Boundary Dispute. Death of John Q. Adams. Wisconsin admitted. 418 

TAYLOR'S ADMINISTRATION. 
CCX. His Election and Inauguration. The Wilmot Proviso and Martin 

Van Buren. The Department of the Interior, tlalifornia 415 

CCXI. The Compromise Measures, or Omnibus Bill. Henry Clay. Death 

of President Taylor. Death of John C Calhoun . . . 418 

FILLMORE'S ADMINISTRATION. 
CCXII. His Accession. Signing of the Omnibus Bills. Lopez and the Cuban 
Fillibusters. The Cheap-Postage Laws. Laying the Corner-Stone 

of the Capitol Extension at Washington. Kossuth in America 421 

1* 



10 CONTENTS. 

i;HAPTEK PAGF 

CCXIII. Death of Henry Clay. Of Daniel Webster. Ditticiiity a.s to Northern 

Fisheries with Great Britain. Tripartite Treaty. Everett's Ee]ily . 4'2'S 

PIEECE'S ADMINISTRATION, 

CCXIV. His Inauguration. The Mesilla Valley Dispute. Captain Ringgold's 
Exploring Expedition. Surveys for a Pacific Railroad. The Arrest 
of Martin Koszta by the Austrians. Ttie Japan Expedition. The 
Kansas-Nebraska Act, and Repeal of the Missouri Compromise. 
Seizure of the Black Warrior. The Ostend Conference. Mr. Soule 
stopped at Calais by the French Authorities. The Crystal Palace. 4'..'(: 
CGXV. The Reciprocity Treaty with Canada. Walker's Invasion of Nicara- 
gua. British Enlistments in the United States. The American 
Expeditions In Search of Sir John Franklin. Finding of the British 
Ship Resolute, and her Presentation to the British Government 
by the United States 4:^'' 

BUCHANAN'S ADMINISTRATION. 

CCXVI. Troubles in Kansas. Lecompton Constitution in Congress. Its Re- 
jection by the People of Kansas, and a New Constitution adopted. 435 

CCXVII. Ditiiculty with the Mormons 438 

CCXVIII. The Panic of 1S57. Purchase of Mount Vernon by the Mount Vernon 

Ladies' Association. Death of Thomas H. Benton 440 

CCXIX. Canals, Steam-Navigation, Railroads. The Submarine Telegraph.. . 442 
CCXX. Minnesota admitted" as a State. History of Oregon. Its admission 

into the Union. The San Juan Difficulty 444 

CCXXI. The Doctrine of the Right of Secession. The Presidential Election of 

1860. Its Result and Consequences 446 

LINCOLN'S ADMINISTRATION. 

CCXXTI. Secession of South Carolina and other States, &c 448 

. CCXXIII. The Battle of Bull Run. Othei- events of the Year 1861 452 

CCXXIV. The Battle of Fort Donelson. The Merrimac and Monitor, &c 454 

CCXXV. The Campaign of the Army of the Potomac. The Seven Days. The 

Second Battle of Bull Run. The Battle of Antietam ^ 457 

CCXXVI. Successes in the West. The Battles of Fredericksburg, Chancellors- 

ville, Gettysbui-g, &c 459 

CCXX VII. General Grant made Lieu tenant-General. Campaign of the Army of 

the Potomac, &c 462 

CCXXVIII. The Campaigns of Sherman's Army. Capture of Atlanta 465 

CCXXIX. Sherman's March Northward from Savannah. Capture of Richmond, &c. 467 
CCXXX. The Finances of the Union. Greenbacks. Taxation. Volunteering. 

Drafting. Government Loans. Andrew Johnson 470 

THE INDIAN TERRITORY. 

CCXXXI. Indians of North America, the West Indios, and South America 472 

CCXXXII. General Views 478 

NORTHERN PARTS OF NORTH AMERICA. 

BRITISH POSSESSIONS IN NORTH AMERICA. 

CCXXXIII. Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Canada, etc 478 

THE POLAR RKGIONS. 

CCXXXIV. The Esquimaux; Greenland: Russian America... 482 

THE WEST INDIES. 

CCXXXV. St. Salvad-.i'. Puha. Hayti, Porto Rico, etc 4^ I 

SOUTH KKX PATITS OF NOTITH AMERICA. 

CCXXXVL Mexico and Guati'iuala, ...• Centrnl Anieii.-a 4M 

SOTTTH AAlEriCA. 
CCXXXVIT. Discovcrv of South AuKU-ica liv Columbus. Discovery of the Piicific 

by Ball)oa. Conriuest of Pom ' 489 

CCXXXVIII. Bolivia. Chili. Th" Arn;entino> R(>i)ublic. Paraguay. Uruguay. 

Brazil. Guiana. Equador. New Granada, and Venezuela 49.3 

CONCLUSION. 

CCXXXTX. The Indian Raoo. or Aborigines of Americ:i ? Wlionof cani'^ they? 40.'. 

Dkoi.aration of Independence. 495. Artiot.es op Confrdkr atton, 497 Constitution of 
THE Unitkd States, 501. Amendments to the Constitution, ftO?. Index, .509. 



PICTORIAL HISTORY OF AMERICA. 




^TO 



CHAPTER I.— iNlJiODUCTION. 

Early settlement of Asia^ Africa^ and 
Euro-pe, — Progress of Navigation. 



iHE following' pages are designed to comprise a 
History of the United States, with some account of other portions of 
America. History is a recital of what has happened respecting na- 
tions and countries ; and our History of America will be an account 
of the most interesting events that have occurred in this quarter of 
tlie globe. 

%. All our readers know that the history of mankind begins with 



-Chap. I.— Verse 1. What is the object ol the following pages ? What is 
1 Ustory ? What will this History of America be ? 



12 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

Adam and Eve, about G,000 years ago; and tliat their descendants 
spread over Asia first, then over Africa, and then over Europe, 

3. At what time mankind began to settle in Europe we cannot 
precisely tell; we only know that about 1,85G years before Christ, 
that is, more' than 3,700 years ago, a man by the name of In'-a-chus 
led a company of emigrants from Egypt into Greece. 

4. These found that countiy inliabited by savages, who, no doubt, 
were the descendants of those who had wandered there from Asia. 
Inachus and his companions established themselves in Greece, and 
from that point of time Europe gradually became occupied by civilized 
people. 

5. Thus the three qnnrters of the globe, Asia, Africa, and Europe, 
were settled; and as they all lay together in one continent, mankind 
gradually acquired a general, though still imperfect notion of their 
shape and extent. But America was separated from Asia by the 
Pacific Ocean, almost ten thousand miles across; and from Europe 
and Africa, by the Atlantic, about three thousand miles across. Of 
America, therefore, the people in ancient times knew nothing. 

6. The ships in old times were small, ill-built, and feeble, com- 
pared with the ships of the present day. The people did not know 
the shape of the world ; the art of navigation was in its infancy, and 
even the mariner's compass, that mysterious bnt steadfast friend of 
the sailor, was not used by the Europeans till about the year 1250. 
The crossing of wide oceans was therefore a thing that could not be 
accomplished. Navigators seldom dared to stretch forth upon the 
boundless sea; they only ventured to creep carefully along the shores, 
always keeping the land in sight. 

7. But the weakness of the ships, and the inexperience of navi- 
gators, were not the only hinderances to the progress of navigation 
A multitude of imaginary dangers, brooding over the great waters, 
were conjured up to appall the sailors, and prevent their venturing 
I'orth upon them. 

8. Among these horrors was that described by Pyth'-e-as, who, 
many centuries before, had coasted from ^larseilles [7uar-saUz'] to the 
Shet'-land Isles, then a great and daring adventure. When he returned, 
he declared that his progress was stojjped by an immense black clam 
or oyster, suspended in the air, and that any sliip advancing toward it 
would be swallowed up in its gigantic shell 1 

2. What of the history of mankind? What of the descendants of Adam and Eve? 
3. What of the settlement of Europe ? 4. What did Inachus and his companions find in 
Greece? 5. AVhy did mankind early acquire a knowledge of Asia, Africa and Europe? 
Why did thoy not acquire a kno\vleds,'o of America? C. Wnat of the ships of ancient 
times? 7. What other things hindered the i)r<);_'ress of navigation ? 8. What of the story 
of Pytheas? 



ERRORS OF THE DEEP. 



13 




THE HAND OP SATAN. 



9. If such were the terrors of the Northern seas, still more awful 
dangers were supposed to beset those of the South. It was believed 
that a giant was stationed on the Ca-na'-ry Islands, who brandished a 
formidable club, and warned all vessels from proceeding to the westward 
of his island throne ; and those who should venture across the equator 
into the regions of the Sun, it was said would be changed into negroes 
for their rashness. 

10. Even the maps and charts of that day pictured the unknown 
portions of the sea as filled with concealed and treacherous horrors, 
such as terrible monsters and hideous water unicorns, ready to ingulf 
the voyager. The x\t-lan'-tic was then called the Sea of Darkness, and 
one of these devices represented the bony and gnarled hand of Satan 
as rising from out the waves, ready to seize and destro}^ the mariner 
who should venture into those forbidden regions. 

9. What of the giant of tbe Canaries? What of those who shoTihl venture to cross the 
t.'qnator? 10. What of the maps and charfs cf those days? What of sea rcoiisters ! 
What of the hand of Satan ? 
2 



14 



H I S T O R V OF T H K II N I T K D S T A T E S . 



CHAPTEE II. 

Sailm'S of Scandinavia. — Yasco da Gama. — Sjject're of the 
Cape. — Improvement of Namgation. — Colwnitms. — Madoc. 

1. In spite of all these difficulties, liowever, navigation steadily 
advanced. The daring sailors of Nor'-way, Swe'-den, and Den'-mark, 
then called Scan-di-na'-vi-a, ventured forth in ships scarcely larger than 
boats, and traversed the stormy waters of the North Atlantic, discover- 
ing Green'-land and Ice'-land. At a later period, several navigators 
coasted along the western shores of Africa ; and finally, in 1498, Vas'-co 
da Ga'-ma, a Port'-u-gnese navigator, doubled the Cape of Good Hope, 
and proceeded by that route to In'-dia. 



« 




THE SPECTRE OP THE CAPE. 

2. This was six years later than the great voyage of Columbus 
across the Atlantic, of which I shall soon give an account ; but such 
were the popular superstitions of that time, that the crew of Da Gania, 
as they passed Table Eock, situated near the Cape, believed that they 
saw in the troubled sky a huge spectre waving off their vessel, and 

Cha.'. II. What of the sailors of Norway, Sweden, and Denmark ? Vasco da Gama ? 
2. What of the spectre of the Cape 'i 



I M P R O V E M E N T O F N A V 1 U A T JON. 1 5 

tiireuteniiig destruction to all who should dare to invade his dread 
douiiuions! 

3. Nevertheless, as navigation improved, mankind grew more ad- 
venturous upon the sea; and, by degrees, their knowledge of the 
world — its seas and oceans, its shores and continents — was so far in- 
creased, that the Old World, or the Eastern Ilernispliere, was tolerably 
well understood. The idea had also occurred to many individuals, 
that the great oceans probably contained large masses of yet nn 
discovered land. 

4. It seems to be the course of Providence to make a gi-adiial <K 
veloi)ment of the knowledge which is important to man; and when 
any great revelation, or any great discovery, is needful, the means of 
effecting the desired object are provided. The time had at length ar- 
rived for dispelling the mystery which had hitherto brooded over the 
mighty seas : and Ciiris'-to-pher Co-lum'-bus, the instrument of accom- 
plishing this great work, was born and trained for his career. 

5. It was he who not only discovered America, but made it known 
to the people of the E^Lstern 0.:)ntinent. The discovery was so new, 
vast, and surprising, that the land he had found seemed like another 
world ; and accordingly it w^as called the Xew World. 

6. But before we proceed to speak more particularly of Co-Ium'-bus, 
we must say a few words respecting the accounts of the discovery of 
America previous to his time. The Welsh have a tradition of some 
celebrity, according to which, a chieftain of Wales, named Ma'-tloc, 
made several distant voyages to the west, about tlieyear 1170. 

7. In one of these expeditions, they say that he disc-overed a fair 
and large country; and, returning to Wales, took with him a number 
of his friends and relatives, and set forth to settle there. From this 
period there was never any thing heard of them. It has been thought 
that the "fair and large country" was America, and that these emi- 
grants went thither. But there is no good reason to believe this 
tradition. 



CHAPTER TIL 

DisGOvery and Settlement of the Northnien in North 

Anherica. 

1. The discovery of America by the seamen of Norway and Denmark, 
called North'-men, at an earlier period than this of which we havejust 

3. What was the result of the improvement of navigation? What idea became com- 
mon? 4. Wliat of the course of Providence? 5. What of Columbus ? 6-7. What of the 
tradition in respect to Madoc? 



16 



H 1 S T O K V U F T H E U iN I T E D S T .\T E S. 




THE NORTHMEN GOING TO AMERICA. 



spoken, rests on a surer foundation. These were by far the most ad- 
venturous navigators of Europe during the Middle Ages. Although 
their vessels were small and without decks, and they had no knowl- 
edge of the mariner's compass, they fearlessly traversed the North 
.Vtlantic, and as early as the year 860 had discovered Iceland, which 
was colonized by the iSTor-we'-gi-ans in 8Y4. 

2. Greenland was discovered not long after, and was settled by two 
colonies, one from Denmark and one from Norway. Hence the inter- 
course between this place and the home country became common. 
According to well-authenticated accounts, in the year 1002, Lief, a 
Nor\vegian, with a number of men, set sail from Greenland and pio- 
ceedetl to the south-west. 

3. They soon came to land, and, continuing their voyage, discovered 
a country of grapes, which they named Vin'-land, or the Land of Wine. 
The party returned to Greenland, ])nt soon after, Thor'-wald pursued 
the discovery in the same ship. Having landed on a beautiful shore, 
lie fell in Avitb savages, and was killed by them. His party escaped 
and returned to Greenland. 



Chap. III. "Who were the Northmen ? Whnt of tlieir vessels ? When did tiiey discover 
Iceland ? When :tnd liy Avhom was Iceland settled ? 2. Wlien M-as Greenland dis- 
eovered and colonized? When did Lief sail on his voyaise from Greenland? 3. Wh;il 
did Lief discover ? What <.f Thorwald ? What was his fate ? 



YOYAGPJS OF THE NORTHMEN. 17 

4. Thor'-steiu, the bi'otber of Lief and ThorvvakK iindisiuayed l)/ 
the fate of bis kinsman, fitted out another expedition from Iceland, 
comprising twenty-five persons. They reached Vin'-laud, but en- 
countered great liardships; and Tborstein died of the scurvy shortly 
after his return. 

5. Another adventurer, named Tbor'-finn, undertook an expedition 
on a much larger scale than any of the preceding. He fitted out three 
vessels, vs^ith upwards of a hundred emigrants, carrying cattle, furni- 
ture, tools, &c. They had a prosperous voyage, and, on reaching Vin- 
land, found a large whale cast ashore, which afltbrded them ample 
subsistence for a time. They cut down trees and built themselves 
houses. A party of savages paid them a visit, who were affriglited 
beyond measure by the lowing of a bull they had brought with them. 

6. The Northmen made presents to the savages, with which they 
were highly pleased. They appeared to be ignorant of edge-tools ; for 
one of them contrived to steal a battle-axe, with which he sportively 
struck one of his companions, as he had been accustomed to do with 
his rude tomahawk, but was astonished to find that he had given 
him a mortal wound. 

7. Thor'-finn made many voyages to Yinland, and grew rich. His 
latter days were spent in Iceland, where he lived in great splendor. 
After some time, other expeditions were made to Vinland; but the 
adventurers became involved in bloody contentions. Bishop E'-ric is 
said to have visited the country in 1321. Soon after this date, the 
communication with Vinland, from some unknown cause, entirely 
ceased, and the country was forgotten. 

8. This is the account furnished by the Sagas, or historical records 
of Iceland. There is no reason to doubt the general correctness of 
these narratives, but writers are not agreed as to the situation of 
Vinland. Some, who have very carefully investigated the whole his- 
tory, and compared it with the geographical features of the ISTorth 
American coast, decide that Vinland is identical with Mas-sa-chu'-setts 
and Rhode Island ; but the main colony of the Northmen was in Nar- 
ra-gan'-set Bay, and the prom'-on-tory where Thorwald was buried, is 
Point Al'-der-ton, at the entrance to Boston harbor. Nevertlieless, 
there is much doubt on this sul)ject. 

4. What of Thorstein ? 5 What of Thorfinn ? What vessels did he fit out ? What of 
the whale ? The savages and the lowing of the bull ? (?. What of presents ? The battle- 
axe? 7. What of Thorfinn after leaving Vinland? Bishop Eric? What of the communi- 
cation Aiith Vinland? 8. Vv'hat may be .said of this account? 



18 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 




OOLUMBTJS IN HIS TOOTH. 

CIIAPTEK TV. 

About Christopher Cohimhus — His plans for making dis- 
coveries — His cause espoused hy the King and Queen of 
Spain — Depart%ire of his fleet. 

1. "We must now turn our attention to the discovery of America, 
Avhich resulted in its occupation and settlement by the Europeans. 
Several hundred years had passed since the expeditions of the North- 
men, and as their discoveries had not been made known to Europe, 
even the remembrance of them in their own country had faded away. 

2. The person who was the means of making the great discovery 
alluded to was Christopher Columbus. He was a native of Gen'-o-a, in 



Chap. I V.— 1. "What time had passed since the discovery of America by the Northmen ? 
2. What of Columbus ? 



COLUMBUS. 19 

Italy, and was born A. D., 1435. He was chiefly employed, till he 
was fourteen years of age, with his father, in combing wool. He was 
exceedingly fond of books, but the circumstances of his father did not 
allow him to indulge his natural fondness for them. He was particu- 
larly pleased with books of voyages and travels, and early manifested 
a desire to see foreign countries. 

3. At length he was allowed to go to sea. His first voyages were 
in the Med-i-ter-ra'-nean. Of these, history tells but little. We know 
tliat ho was employed for a time in a war between the Venetians and 
the Mohammedans, and that in one instance, when the vessel to which 
he belonged had taken fire, he saved his life by swimming ashore. 

4. But Columbus was too active and enterprising to be always con- 
fined to the narrow limits of the Mediterranean. He travelled to 
almost every part of the world which was then known; and his prac- 
tical mind at length led him to contemplate a voyage to parts which 
had not yet been even thought of by most persons. 

5. The mariners of the fifteenth century, as we have already shown, 
knew little of foreign countries. Their knowledge was cliiefly con- 
fined to the coasts and islands of Europe. They had never ventured 
so far along the shores of Africa as to cross the equator. The trade 
with the East Indies Avasat that time carried on by land, and the West 
Indies were of course undiscovered. 

6. The strong desire which Avas felt by commercial men to find out 
a path to the East Indies by water, led to much conversation on the 
subject ; and some persons began to think and speak of the probability 
of reaching that part of the world by sailing round the southern point 
of Africa. But Columbus had a plan which extended still further. 

7. Having adopted the idea, from books of geography and astron- 
omy, that the eartli was round, it very naturally occurred to him that 
there might be more land somewhere to counterpoise what was already 
known on one side of the globe ; and that it was at least quite pos- 
sible to find the East Indies by sailing westward. 

8. But what was to be done? He and his friends were poor, and it 
would require much money to fit out an expedition like that which 
the prosecution of his schemes would demand. He was therefore com- 
pelled to seek the patronage and pecuniary aid of others. 

9. He first explained his views and stated his plans to the senate of 
his native country, Genoa — then a flourishing commercial state — but 
as he found no encouragement there, he applied to the king of Por'-tu- 



.3. What more of Columbus? 4. What of the travels of Columbus? Wliat did he 
begin to contemplate? 5. What of the mariners of the fifteenth century ? 6. What was 
the desire of commercial men ? 7. What was the plan of Columbus ? 8. What difficul- 
ties were in the way of Columbus ? 9. What did Columbus do ? 



20 



HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 



gill and the king und queen of Spain. They heard him with patience, 
but believing him to be somewhat visionary, they were not disposed to 
afford him the necessary aid. Still he was not discouraged. 

10. He had by this time drawn into his service his younger brother 
Bar-thol'-o-mew. The latter had even been sent to England to solicit 
aid from King Henry VII. ; but the vessel in which he went was 
taken by pirates, and nothing more was heard for some thne, either 
of him or his undertaking. 




COLUMBUS PREPARING TO LKAVE PALUS. 

11. In the mean time, the appeal to the king and (pieen of Spain 
had been renewed, and after the lapse of about eight years it was suc- 
cessful. Fer'-di-nand and Ts-a-bel'-la agreed to furnish three small 
vessels and ninety men, and provisions for one year. Such an outfit, 
small as it may seem to us, was then deemed exceedingly liberal. 
Queen Isabella even parted with her jewels to aid in paying the ex- 
penses. 

12. Preparations were made at the little poi-t of Pa'-los, for the 



10. "What of the brother of rohimhns? 11. What of Ferdinand and Isabella? 



DISCOVERY OFAMERICA. 21 

equipment of the vessels destined for the enterprise. Havmgbeen duly 
appointed high-adniirtil of all the seas he might discover, and also sol- 
emnly consecrated by the head of the Fran-cis'-can monastery at Palos, 
Cohnnbus entered his ship and gave orders to spread the sails. 

10. The names of the three vessels that thus set out for America, 
were the San'-ta Ma-ri'-a, the Pin'-ta, and the Ni'-na. The two latter 
were mere barks, but the Santa Maria, Columbus' own vessel, was of 
considerable size. In addition to the crew of ninety men, about thirty 
other persons went out with them as mere adventurers. 



CHAPTER Y. 

First ^'Oyage of Columbus across the Atlantic — His Dis- 
covery of America. 

1. Columbus Avas now not far from fifty-five years of age. He had 
spent forty years at sea, and nearly twenty in planning this western 
voyage. The day of his setting sail must have been a proud one to 
him. How must his strong heart have beat Iiigh with emotion ! 

2. The little fieetleft the port of Palos, in Spain, on the morning of 
August 3d, 1402. Their course was south-westward till they reached 
the Canary Islands, after Avhich they proceeded nearly west. They 
had a good deal of unfavorable weather, and were sixty days in reach- 
ing the West Indies. 

3. In order to understand the feelings of Columbus and his men 
during this long and eventful voyage, we must consider that their 
vessels were small and feeble compared with the ships of the present 
day; and we must remember also that they were entering upon an 
unknown sea, which, according to popular belief, was full of the most 
awful dangers. 

4. As they proceeded on their unknown path, after leaving the 
Canaries, the aspect of nature seemed to change ; the sky, the stars, 
the color of the Avater appeared strange, and to the imagination of the 
sailors, ominous and fearful. Even the needle of the compass, hitherto 
pointing to the polar star, seemed afi:ected with some sinister influ- 
ence, for it now tremblingly diverged to the north-west. 



12. What of the preparations made? 13. What of the ships and men of Columbus? 

Chap. V. — 1. What was the age of Columbus at the time of setting sail upon his voy- 
age? How long a time had he spent in planning his voyage ? 2. When did the fleet 
sail ? W^hat of their course ? 3. What was the popular belief as to the Atlantic ocean at 
thi? time? 4. What of the sky, sea, and stars, as Columbus advanced? "What of the 
compass ? 



22 



HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 




COLUMBUS APPROACIIIXf; THE LAND. 



5. These things greatly disturbed the navigators, but at length the 
air became more balmy, and acjuatic plants, apparently detached from 
some shore, floated upon the sea: at the same time sweet odors filled 
the air, and birds were seen on the wing. 

6. But now another strange thing appeared : the sea was so covered 
with vegetation as to impede the vessels. About the same time the 
trade-winds, which blow steadily in one direction for several months 
of the year, and which these adventurers had never heard of, began to 
bear them along, in a direction away from their home. 

7. The sailors had several times been nearly in a state of mutiny, 
*)U account of their fears, but now their terrors and their disobedience 
wQre renewed. They believed that they had arrived at the very limits 
of tlie M'orld, and tliat unless they speedily returned, they would never 
again see their native land. 

8. Cohnnbus was an old commander, and he resorted to various 



What of plants, birds, etc. ? 6. What of the trade-winds? 7. What of the sailors* 



ATLANTIC OCEAN. 



y3 




j3:6 ,90 ?<^ ^0 3|o tp 10 ^^.^ ^^'--^T 



\^^l r. 



^^ CP' / Wei-innd'as I Madeira 1' '' 






/^ \ %\ 




SOliOU.East 



MAP OF THE ATLANTIC OCEAN. 



]*joTE.— The whole length of the Atlantic, from Greenland to Cape Horn, is about 9,000 
miles; its greatest width is about 8,000 miles. 

Questions. — What countries bound the Ailaniie on the east ? Ans. Africa and Europe. 
What countries bound it on the west ? A North and South America. 

In what direction did the Northmen sail, in going from Greenland to America? la 
what direction did Columbus sail, in going from the Canary Islands to the West Indies? 

In what direction is Palos. in Spain, from the Island of St. Salvador? Which way is 
Cape Verd from Spain? Which way is Hayli from Spain? Eio Janeiro from Washing- 
ton? 



HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 




COLUMBUS TAKING POSSESSION OP THE NEWLY DISCOVERED ISLAND. 



means to allay the terrors and the discontent of his crew. But now 
their anxiety and impatience had reached such a pitch that it was 
with great difficulty he restrained them from open rebellion. 

9. Fortunately the signs of land, at no great distance, became so 
strong that hope revived among the sailors, and they went on their 
way. At length, on the 11th of October, they faintly discovered land, 
and on the 12th they were alongside of a beautiful green island. 

10. This proved to be what was called by the natives Gu-a-na-han'-i, 
one of the Ba-ha'-mas ; but Columbus named it San Sal'-va-dor. It was 
several leagues in extent, and had inhabitants upon it. As Columbus 
landed, he knelt and kissed the new earth, at the same time thanking 
God, who had prospered their enterprise. His men, impatient and 
mutinous as they had been during the voyage, now crowded around 
him and begged his forgiveness. The scene must have been truly 
affecting. 

11. The native inhabitants of the island, who have since been called 
Indians, were naked and copper-colored, with long black hair, and 
without beards. These gathered around the new comers in wonder, 

8. "What of Columbus? 9. What of the men during the voyage ? What happened Octo- 
ber 11 1492? What on the 12th? 10. What was the first land discovered in America^ 
What did Columbus do on landing? What of his men? 



DISCOVEKY OF C T j; a 




PORTRAIT OP COLUMBUS. 

not knowing what to make of them. They looked at the ships 
with even greater amazement than at the men, regarding them as' 
some gigantic species of animal ; and when cannon were discharged, 
they imagined them to be engines with eyes of fire and voices of 
thunder. 

12. When Columbus had spent a little time in examining the new 
island, he proceeded to make further discoveries. Cuba was dis- 
covered November Tth, and His-pa-ni-o'-la or St. Do-min'-go not long 
afterward. These, however, were all the lands which were discovered 
during the first voyage. As Columbus supposed these to be a part of 
the Indies, they afterward acquired the name of the "West Indie.-'. 
Columbus set out on his return to Spain, January 14th, 1493. 

13. On their passage homeward, the adventurers encountered terri- 
ble storms, in one of which they were near being lost. In the moment 



11. What of the natives of the newly-discovered island ? 12. What other discoveries 
did Columbus make during this voyage? How did the West Indies get their name? 
When did Columbus set sail on his return? 
.3 



26 HISTOKY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

of the greatest daDger, Columbus liad presencG of mind cnong?i to 
write on parchment a short account of his voyage, enclose it in a cake 
of wax, and commit it to the sea in a cask, in hopes that if all, else 
should be lost, this might survive, and give information of his dis- 
coveries to the world. After seventy days, however, they arrived safe 
in Spain, 



CHAPTER VI. 

The other Voyagef^ of Columlws. 

1. When Columbus arrived in Spain, the news of his wonderful dis, 
coveries rapidly spread far and wide over the country, and he was 
everywhere looked upon with respect and admiration. Ferdinand and 
Isabella, then at the city of Bar-ce-lo'-na, received him with the most 
distinguished tokens of regard. 

2. lie had brought various specimens of the productions of what vv-as 
now called the New World, and tliese were exhibited to the king and 
queen and to the court, who seemed to regard them with wonder and 
admiration. No honors were too great for Columbus, and a powerful 
fleet was placed at his conujiand for another voyage. 

8. This was made in the fall of 1498, during which Columbus dis- 
covered Ja-mai'-ca and a few other islands. But now unexpected 
difficulties occurred. Enemies thickened around him and retarded his 
.progress. It was not till the summer of 1498 that he made his third 
voyage, during which he discovered the Continent of America, to which 
he had been the first to open a pathway. Even then, being charged 
with misconduct, he was carried home in chains. 

4. Columbus was however liberated, and made a fourth voyage to 
America in 1502, with his brother Bartholomew and his son Fernando; 
hut it was his last. The same enmity which had caused him to be sent 
home from his third voyage in fetters, still pursued him, and he at 
last became its victim. After languishing in obscurity and poverty for 
a time, he died at Val-la-dol'-id, in Spain, May 20th, 1506, in the 
^•-eventy-first year of his age. 



13. "What of the voyage homeward ? 

CnAP. VI.— 1. How was Columbus received on his return to Spain? 2. What of 
the epecimens of products of the New World? Wliat of another fleet? 8. When was 
the second voyage of Columbus p_erformed? What di'l he dl.scover during his second 
voyage? His third voyage? 4, What of his fourth voyage? What more of Colum- 
bus? 



OTHER DISCOVERIES IN AMERICA 



'21 




AMEEICUS VESPDCXUS. 



5. Thus had America 
been discovered and 
made known to the 
Europeans by Chris- 
topher Columbus. The 
new continent, on every 
just principle, should 
have been called Co- 
lumbia, after its discov- 
erer. But A-mer'-i-cus 
Ves-pu'-ci-us, a Flor-' 
en-tine, who visited the 
continent in 1499, and 
published a map of the 
coast, pretending at the 
same time to have made 
large discoveries, con- 
trived to have it calle<l 
by his own name, which 
it has since retained. 



OHAPTEE YII. 

Othe?' Discoveries in America hy the English^ Portuguese 
and French. 

1. The fame of what Columbus had done was soon spread through 
Europe, and adventurers flocked to the New World — some for honor, 
some for enterprise, and others for gain. In general, however, the 
great object of pursuit was gold and other precious commodities, as 
will become more evident in the progress of our history. 

2, John Cab'-ot, a Venetian merchant who had settled at Bristol, in 
England, sailed in May, 1497, under the patronage of Henry VII. of 
England, for the purpose of making discoveries in America, being 
accompanied by his son Sebastian, as well as two other sons. In the 
course of this voyage, in June, he discovered a portion of the coast of 
Labrador, and thus was the first discoverer of the continent of Amer- 
ica. He soon returned, but not long after his son Sebastian explored 
the coast from Labrador to Virginia, claiming the country in the name 
of the king of England. 

5. What of the name of America? Americus Vespucius? 

Chap. VII —1, What followed the discoveries of Columbus? What were the objects 
of the early adventurer;? in America ? 2. What of John Cabot? 



28 rtlSTORV OF THE UNITED STATES. 

8, In loui, the king of Portugal sent out a fleet of discovery under 
the command of Gas'-par Cor-te-re'-al. He sailed along the shores of 
North America six or seven hundred miles ; but lie appears to have 
thought more of money than any thing else ; and not finding gold, he 
seized on fifty of the native Indians, carried them home, and sold 
them as slaves. 

4. Emboldened by his success, he made a second voyage, but did 
not live to return. The general belief is that he lost his life in at- 
tempting to secure another cargo of slaves, and that Labrador was the 
tlieatre of his crime and its punishment. This, hov/ever, is not quite 
certain. 

5. The French, too, engaged in attempts to make discoveries. Their 
operations, however, were at first principally about the mouth of the 
St, Law'-rence, and the islands of New-found'-land and Cape Bre'-ton. 
By the year 1505 or 1506, they were quite familiar with this region, 
and Den'-ys of llon'-fleur had drawn a map of the Gulf of St. 
Lawrence. 

6. As early as 1508, the French had become much engaged in the 
fisheries on the northeast coast of the present United States, and, as 
if to follow up the wicked example of the Portuguese, and involve the 
first settlers in cruel wars, had forcibly carried away to France some 
of the natives. They ai)]X'ar also to have meditated the establishment 
of colonies in the New World. 



€11 AFTER VIII. 

Various Discoveries in Worth America. — The Yoyage of 
Verrazani. — Discoveries of Cartier. — Ponce de Leon. — 
Ferdinand de Soto. — Sir Walter Raleigh. 

1. One of the most remarkable voyages of discovery was made in 
1524. Fran'-cis I., king of France, sent out to America, Ver-ra-za'-ni, 
a Flor'-en-tine, who, with a single vessel, the Dolphin, after a long 
voyage of fifty days, in which he encountered a terrible storm, 
reached North Carolina; tlience, sailing northward, he explored the 
coasts of New Jersey, Rhode Island, Massachusetts, Maine, and Nova 
Scotia, and returned to France. He also paid some attention to the 
coasts of Florida, which, however, had been previously occupied by 
the Spaniards. 

8, 4. What of tliP kin<,' of Portugtil iind Gnsimr Cortereal? 5, (>. V\ h:it of the French? 
Chap. VIII.— 1. What ivmp.rkahlo voyaccp took place in 1524? 



VARIOUS DISCOVERIES IN NORTH AMERICA. 29 




2, 111 1534, the same king sent James Car'-tier to the Gulf of St. 
Lawrence and Newfoundland. In a second voyage, tliis navigator 
sailed up the St. Lawrence as far as Mon-tre-al', to which he gave its 
present name. He learned from the Indians something of northern 

New York and 
Vermont ; and he 
claimed posses- 
sion of Canada 
in behalf of the 
French. 

3. Though the 
French were 
early attracted to 
Florida. the Span- 
iards were before 
them. Ponce de 
Le'-on, a voy- 
ager with Colum- 
bus, having be- 
come disaffected 
toward him, pro^ 
ceeded from For 
to ll\Go[ree'-col in ^March, 1512, to make discoveries by himself. He 
found a new region, on the Gth of April, to which he gave the name 
of Florida, on account of its florid or blooming appearance. 

4. The king of Spain, in whose name Leon claimed the country, 
appointed him the governor of it, on condition of his establishing a 
colony there. In attempting to effect a settlement, he met with many 
remarkable adventures ; finally his people were attacked by the Indians 
and driven away, and he was himself mortally wounded. 

5. In 1520, two ships were fitted out at St. Do-min'-go, which pro- 
ceeded to the coast of South Carolina, andhaving decoyed some native 
Indians on board, suddenly set sail, and carried them to St. Domingo. 
It is not surprising, from this and similar outrages, that the savages of 
the continent, from one end of it to the other, became suspicious of 
white men. 

6. In 1540, Ferdinand de So'-to made a tour through Florida, noi-tli- 
ward, to Georgia, and thence westward, across the Cher-o-kee' count rv 
and Alabama, to the country of the Chick-a-saws', where he spent the 
winter. In the spring of 1541, he discovered and crossed the Missis- 



DEATH OF PONCE DE LEON. 



2. What occurred in respect to Caitier in 15?.4? Sc1>asUan? 8, 4. What of Fioriilai^.uil 
Ponce de Leon? 5. Capture of Indians? 6. What of Ferdinand de Soto? 



30 



HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 



sippi, and traveled in Arkansas and Missouri. He died in 1542, and 
his companions passed through Louisiana to Mexico. 

7. The details of this expedition are full of interest. The Indians of 
these regions, at this period, were numerous, and their manners 
^ ^ ^ ^ and customs pre- 

\y^^^^^^gM^ \ .^ sent much that 

"^ ~ '^ is curious. 

8. We have 
already seen that 
the English, 
through the Cab- 
ots, had estab- 
lished exclusive 
claims in the new 
continent. In 
1584, Queen Eli. 
zabeth having 
made a grant to 
the celebrated 
and accomplish- 
ed Sir Walter 
Ra'-leigh, he sent hither two ships on a voyage of discovery. These 
entered Pamlico Sound, and explored the coast to the northward. The 
queen bestowed upon this region the title of Virginia. 

9. Among the discoveries of minor importance, made toward the 
close of the sixteenth century, were those of Bar-thol'-o-mew Gos'-nold, 
an Englishman. In a voyage to Virginia, as the whole coast was then 
called, he discovered and named Cape Cod, Martha's Vineyard, and 
Elizabeth Island, belonging to Massachusetts; he attempted to form a 
settlement on the latter, but without success. 




SIR WALTER RALEIGH. 



CHAPTEF. IX. 

The Native Inhabitants of the New World.- 
Plants and Animals, 



-PecidiaT 



1. While the various nations of Europe were thus making discov- 
eries along the eastern coast of North America, the Spaniards were 



7. What of the sotithern Indians ? 8. What of Sir Walter Ealeigh ? 9. What of Gosnold f 
Char. IX.— 1. What of the enterprises of the Spaniards in the West Indies? 



NATIVE INHABITANTS. 







INDIANS LOOKING AT THE APPROACH OP COLUMBUS FLEET. 

extending their enterprise among the various "West India Islands, aa 
well as upon the continent around the Gulf of Mexico. 

2. One striking fact was manifest, that all the native inhabitants of 
x\raerica were of one race ; they were also of a reddish skin, having 
black hair, black eyes, and a somewhat dark and brooding character. 
They received the name of Indians, as before intimated, and in the 
early histories of America were called the Red Me?!, in distinction from 
Europeans, who were called the White Men. 

3. These Indians were divided into many nations and tribes, and 
Bpoke many different languages. In the northern parts of North 
America, they were divided into a multitude of savage bands, living 
by w^ar and the chase. In the West India Islands they were in general 
a gentle race, living happily upon the natural fruits of the soil, though 
some tribes were fierce and wild, and even feasted on human flesh. 



2. Describe the natives of America? What names were applied to them? 8. What of 
the Indians in the northern parts of North America? In the West Indies? 



32 H 1 S T R Y O F T H E LJ N I T E D a T A T E S . 

4. In Mexico, there was a large and powerful nation, which had 
made some advances in civilization, but was still in a harharoiis state. 
About the year 1520, this was invaded and conquered by the Spaniards, 
under the celebrated Fer-nan'-do Cor'-tez. 

5. In the north-western part of the continent of South America there 
was a great empire of native Indians, called Peru, which had also 
reached a certain pitch of civilization ; but about the year 1531 this 
was acquired and subjected to Spain by Pi-zar'-ro. 

6. In other portions of South America, the nati^'es, chiefly savages, 
were conquered by the Spaniards and Portuguese. 

7. We must here mention another curious fact, which is, that the 
Europeans, on arriving in America, discovered many plants and animals 
which they had never seen before. They discovered Indian corn, 
potatoes, and tobacco ; these were carried to Europe, and were then 
for the first time cultivated there. 

8. They also discovered here many kinds of birds and beasts, such 
as did not exist in the Old World ; among them were turkeys, bisons, 
and lamas. They also found that America had no such animals as 
horses, cows, or sheep; nor had they any domestic cats, dogs, hens, 
or chickens. These animals, now so common here, were first brought 
hither from Europe. 



CHAPTEK X. 

An Emjllsh Colony nent out to Virginia. — Settltnient at 
Janiestovm. 

1. We must now leave the general current of events in America, 
and turn our attention, particularly, to the settlement and progress of 
our own country, the United States. While the Spaniards, Portuguese, 
French, and other nations, were carving out the New World to suit 
themselves, we must consider the operations of the English in North 
America. 

2. But, as our attention will first be directed to the southern section 
of our country, let us study the map at page 33. This presents us with 
a view of the Southern States, as they now appear. We here see 

4. What of Cortoz? 5. What of Pizarro? 6. What happened in other parts of South 
Aincrica? 7. What new j)liints did the Europeans discover in America? S. What new 
animals? What domestic animals did not exist in America when it was discovered? 

f'liA!'. X. — 1,2. Let the teacher put such questions aa ho deems necessary upon tho 
map. 



ENGLISH COLONY SENT TO VIRGINIA. 



33 



divisions of states and locations of towns, which did not exist at the 
time at which our history commences. The mountains, rivers, shores, 
and waters were, however, the same. 




MAP OF SOUTHERN STATES. 



8. One hundred and fifteen years had passed away, after the dis- 
covery of America by Columbus, and one hundred and ten after the 



8. How long a time had elapsed after the discovery of America, before any permanent 
settlement was made in the present United States ? 
2* 



34 



HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 



discovery of the continent by the Cabots, and no permanent settlement 
had been made by the English within the limits of what are nov,^ 
called the United States. 




BUILmNG AT J\MLbroWN 



4. But a new era in the history of this western world was at hand. 
A company had been formed in England, under the patronage of king 
James I., whose object was to make settlements in America between 
the 34th and 38th degrees of north latitude, in what was then called 
South Virginia. For this purpose they obtained a royal grant or patent. 

5. In May, 1607, a colony of one hundred and five persons, under 
the direction of this company, arrived oif the coast of South Virginia. 
Their first intention had been to form a settlement on Roanoke [ro'-nohe] 
island, lying on the coast of what is now called North Carolina; but, 
being driven further to the north by a violent storm, they discovered 
and entered the mouth of Ches'-a-peake Bay. 

6. To the capes of this bay, in passing, they gave the names they 
now bear — Cape Charles and Cape Henry — in honor of the two sons 
of the king of England. To a point of land further within the mouth 
of the bay, and near where Hamp'-ton now stands, they gave the 
name of Point Comfort, on account of the comfortable anchorage they 
found there. 



4. "What company was formed in the time of James 
What of Capes Charl.-s aii.l Tlonrv? Point Comfort? 



.? 5. What occurred m 1507? 



SETTLEMiiNT AT JAMESTOWN. 35 

7. This first body of emigrants, unfortunately, did not consist of 
families of hardy, enterprising farmers, and other laborers and me- 
chanics. There were only twelve laborers and a few mechanics in the 
company — "forty-eight gentlemen and four mechanics," as the his- 
torian informs us. All, moreover, were single men ; not an organized 
family being among them. 

8. They were commanded by Captain Christopher Newport, an old 
and experienced navigator. After smoking the cal'-u-met^ or pipe of 
peace, with the natives, on the spot where the town of Hampton now 
stands, they proceeded slowly up a river, which, in honor of theiv 
king, they called James River. 

9. But although they began by smoking the pipe of peace, it ap- 
pears that some of the savage tribes, as they ascended the river, showed 
signs of hostility. They had doubtless heard of the treatment of their 
brethren at the Roanoke River, twenty years before, as will appear in 
the history of North Carolina; or perhaps they remembered the kid- 
nappers of 1520. 

10. At length the colonists came to a peninsula, some fifty miles np 
the river, on its northern side, which they selected as a suitable place 
on which to establish themselves. Hero they landed, and commenced 
the building of houses. This place was called Jamestown. It was 
now about the middle of May. 

11. The plan of government for the little colony had been prepai-ed 
for the emigrants before they left England. One of their first eflbrts 
was to ratify, as it were, this constitution or form of government. 
The officers consisted of a council or board of seven persons, from 
whom they were to select a president, who was to act as chief magis- 
trate. 

12. "We must not omit to notice the method of forming this first 
United States government. The London Company had selected the 
council before the emigrants set out, but the names were carefully put 
up in a box and concealed till the party should arrive in Virginia ; they 
were then to open it and organize themselves. A code of laws, which 
had also been prepared by the Company, was to be at the same time 
promulgated. 

13. The names of the seven councillors were Bartholomew Gosnokl, 
the navigator, John Smith, Edward Wingfield, Christopher Newport, 
John Ratclifi", John Martin, and George Kendall. They made choice 
of Mt. Wingfield for their president. 



7. What of the first body of emisrrants ? Of what class was it composed ? 8. Who com- 
manded the expedition ? 9. What of the Indians ? What of Jamestown? 11, 12. What 
of the government of the colony? 13. Who were the councillors? 



36 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 



CIIAPTEE XL 

VisU to Powhatan. — Account of the Indians in this 
Quarter. — Sad Condition of the Colony. 

1. While a part of the colonists were busy in clearing the soil and 
i)uilding suitable huts and fortifications, Captain Newport, in company 
with Captain John Smith, ascended the James River to the Falls, and 
visited Pow-ha-tan', the chief of the Indians in those parts, at his 
principal seat, just below where Rich'-mond now stands. 

2. The Indians in these regions were quite numerous, though the 
place where Powhatan lived had only twelve houses. These were, 
like the other dwellings of the savages, mere huts or tents made of 
sticks, bark, and leaves, and were called iDigwams. 

3. The visitors found Powhatan and his tribe to be in a very rude 
and savage state ; they lived chiefly by fishing and hunting, though 
they cultivated Indian corn and a few other articles. They were nearly 
naked, but sometimes wore the skins of wild beasts. They were often 
at war with other tribes; their chief weapons in war and the chase 
were the bow and arrow and the tomahawk, the latter being a kind of 
small axe. 

4. After a short stay, Captain Newport left the colony for England. 
No settlement was ever left in a more pitiable condition. To say 
nothing of the danger from savage foes, their provisions were poor 
and insufiicient, the water was unwholesome, and the summer heat in- 
tolerable to those who had been accustomed to a cooler climate: many 
of them were ill, and those who were not so were discouraged. 

5. In less than a fortnight after the departure of the fleet, hardly ten 
of them were able to stand ; and scarcely five were fit to guard the 
fort, or plant crops for future sustenance. The sickness increased, till, 
in some instances, three or four died in a night. Fifty of them, or 
about half the colony, perished before autumn came on. 

6. To complete the catalogue of evils, they quarrelled among them- 
selves. They first excluded Captain Smith from the council, profess- 
edly on account of sedition, but really and truly from motives of envy. 
Next they deposed Mr. Wingfield, the president, and appointed Mr. 
Ratcliff in his stead, who was no better, and thus things, for some 
time, went on. 

7. They discovered, at last, that Captain Smith, whom they had so 



Chap. XL— 1-3. "What of Captain Newport and Captain Smith? 4. What was the state 
<)f the colony when Captain Newport departed wirh the fleet? 5. Wlint poon followed? 
6. What added to the evils of the colony? 



CAPTAIX JOHN SMITH. 



3: 



much hated, was the best man among them, and their chief depend- 
ence. In truth, as it afterward proved, they could not do without him 
In peace or in war. Money, with him, was not, as with most men, and 
especially those of this colony, a main object: the good of his fellow- 
men seems to have been the higher motive in his breast. 

8. Captain Smith became so identified with the history of the colony, 
and, indeed, with the history of our country and our race, that it may 
be well to give a more particular account of him — his birth, education, 
and adventures in early life. 



CHAPTER XII. 

Captain John Smith. — His remarkahle Life and Adven- 
tures. — He joins the Expedition to Yirginia. — Makes 
Treaties with the Indians^ etc. 

1. This most remarkable man of all the first settlers of Jamestown, 

1 was born in Lin- 



colnshire, Eng- 
land, in 1579. He 
was put as an ap- 
prentice to a mer- 
chant, at the age 
of fifteen, but, dis- 
liking the busi- 
ness, he left his 
master, proceeded 
to Holland, enlist- 
ed for a time as a 
soldier, and at 
length found his 
way to Austria. 

2. Here he en- 
tered the Austrian 
army, then engaged in a war with the Turks. After many singular 
adventures, and not a few hazardous exploits in single combat — hav- 
ing, in three several instances, cut off the heads of his antagonists — 




CAPTAIN SMITH MAKING A TREATY WITH THE INDIANS. 



7. What of Captain Smith? S. Why is it proper to tell the story of Captain Smith in 
detail? 

Chap. XII. — 1. When and where was Capttiin John Smith born? What of lus cn-ly 
life? 2. What hax)pened to him in Austria? 
4 



38 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

he was at length wounded, taken prisoner, and, on his recovery, sold 
as a slave. 

8. In this situation he behaved so well as speedily to win the con- 
fidence of his new mistress, who, with a view to restore to him Ids 
freedom, sent him to her brother, an officer at the Cri-me'-a, in Russia. 
Here, contrary to her expectations, he was put to the severest drudgery, 
and his life made a burden. 

4. Determined to escape from his new master, he at length found a 
convenient opportunity. He was employed in threshing, about three 
miles from the house. Here his master visited him once a day. Watch- 
ing his opportunity, Smith dispatched him with the flail, hid his body 
in the straw, and, mounting his horse, fled to the woods. 

5. After wandering several days, uncertain of his fate, he came to 
a guide-post. By means of the marks oa this, he found his way. 
Thus he returned, through Russia, Poland, Germany, and France, to 
his native country; though on his way he passed through Spain, and 
visited the kingdom of Mo-roc'-co, in Africa, where he spent a short 
time. 

6. He reached England just as companies were being formed for 
settling the new continent of America. As he had lost none of his 
courage or energy, he was admirably adapted to the hazardous un- 
dertaking. He was immediately attached to the expedition under 
Captain Newport, and made, as we have seen, one of the members of 
the Virginia council. 

7. Small bodies of men, when exposed to great danger, are, for the 
most part, united among themselves. But it was not so, as we have 
seen, with the Jamestown colony. There was no bond of union, even 
in the hour of danger. To restore harmony, then, was the first object 
to which Smith, who had now recovered his influence, directed his 
attention. 

8. Peace and order, by his efforts, being at length restored, he found 
leisure to do something toward defending the colony from foes with- 
out. The Indians threatened them ; but he made treaties with them, 
and thus succeeded in quieting them for the present, as well as in re- 
moving the fears which had agitated the colony. 



8. What happened to him among the Turks? 4, 5. "What of his escape ? 6. What of 
Smith respecting the American colony? 7. What was the state of the colony when 
Smith recovered his influence ? 8. What did he do ? 



EXPLORATIONS OF SMITH. 



31) 



CHAPTER XIIL 

Captain Smith goes on an Exploring Voyage. — He is taken 
Prisoner^ and carried before Powhatan. 

1. As soon as the colony became secure, and was well supplied with 
provisions, Smith undertook a voyage of discovery. An opinion pre- 
vailed among the first voyagers to America, into which Smith had 
fallen among the rest, that it was only a little way across the country 
to the South Sea, then deemed the ocean path to every kind of wealth. 
They supposed that by ascending almost any river which came ivoiy 
the north-west, they could soon find a passage by water thither. 




CAPTAIN SMITH OX AN EXPLORINO VOYAGE. 

2. The Chick-a-hom'-i-ny River is a brtinch of the James, uniting with 
It a little above Jamestown. With a small number of associates. Smith 
ascended it in a barge as far as it was boatable, and then, leaving tlie 
barge with a part of the men, who were to remain on board, ascended 
in a canoe still higher up the stream. 



Chap. XIIL— 1. What opinion had Smith adopted? 2. What river did Smith ascend 
with an exploring party? 



40 HISTORY OP THE UNITED STATES. 

3. He had no sooner left the hoat, than the crew went ashore at the 
very spot where a brother of Powhatan, with some Indians, lay in 
ambush. They seized one of the men, and, after having compelled 
him to tell them which way their commander had gone, they cruelly 
murdered him, and then went in pursuit of Smith and his party. 

4. Having proceeded about twenty miles, they overtook and at- 
tacked them, killing the companions of Smith, and wounding him. 
They then surrounded and attempted to take him; but, though 
wounded, he defended himself until he had killed three of his assail- 
ants, when he sank deep in a marsh and was captured. 

5. Smith knew the character of the Indians, and set about devising 
expedients to prolong his life. He took from his pocket a compass, 
and amused his captors by showing them the vibrations of the needle. 
He thus excited their curiosity, and by various means arrested their 
immediate purpose of taking his life. 

G. He was, however, detained, and was obliged to exercise his inge- 
nuity to amuse the savages. He endeavored to give tliem some faint 
notions of the earth and the visible heavenly bodies ; he also wrote a 
note on a piece of paper and sent it to the colonists at Jamestown, 
thus showing that by this means he could communicate with his 
friends. 

7. Thus the savages came to the conclusion that their prisoner was 
a magician, and it might not be safe to destroy him ; therefore they 
at length concluded to conduct him to Powhatan. He was bound for 
this purpose and brought before the king, whom he found seated on a 
wooden throne, with two girls, his daughters, at his side. After a 
consultation with his principal men, it was determined to put him to 
death, and they proceeded to make the preparations. 



CHAPTER XIY. 

The Story of Pocahontas. — She saves Captain Smith's Life^ 
and heconies the Friend of the English. — She is married 
to Eolfe. 

1. Two large stones were brought in, and laid at the feet of the 
savage king, and Smith's head was placed on one of them, whde the 



8. What occurred after Smith left the boat? 4. How was Smith pursued and taken f 
5. What did Smith do? 6. What particularly astonished the Indians? 7. What diA 
the savages believe Smith to be? Why did they take him to Powhatan? What did 
Powhatan determine to do? 

Chap. XIV. — 1. What preparations were made for the death of Smith? 



STOllY OF POCAHONTAS. 



41 



savages gathered around to witness the execution. At length the club 
of the destroyer was raised, and every one was waiting in silent sus- 
pense to see it fall on the victim. 




2. At this critical instant, Po-ca-hon'-tas, the eldest of the king's 
daughters, now scarcely twelve years of age, rushed forward with a 
shriek, and threw herself between the unhappy stranger and the exe- 
cutioner. Her hair was loose, and her eyes were wild and streaming 
with tears. She raised her hands to her father, and besought him, 
with all her power of eloquence, to spare his captive. 

3. Powhatan, though little used to pity, could not resist her en- 
treaties and tears. He paused, and looked round upon his warriors, as 
if to gather their opinion of what was proper to be done. They too 
were touched with pity, though they were savages. At last he raised 
his daughter, and promised her to spare the prisoner's life. 

4. He was accordingly saved, and tlie very next day conducted by 



2. Wliat did Pocahontas now rto? 8. What of Powhatan and the savages? 4. What 
was done with Smith? What treaty did he make? 

1* 



42 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

a guard of twelve men to Jamestown. He liad been a prisoner about 
seven weeks. Before his departure he made a treaty with the king, 
by which he was to send back two cannon and a grindstone, for which 
Powhatan Avas to let liim have a large tract of country, and forever 
regard him as his son. 

5. He reached Jamestown in safety, but not wishing to send guns 
to the savages, he determined to frighten them. However, he brought 
forward the two cannon and a grindstone, but they thought them too 
heavy to carry. He then discliarged the cannon, loaded with stones, 
among the trees, which so terrified them that tliey were glad to return 
to Powhatan with a quantity of toys and trinkets in their stead. 

6. Powhatan was greatly pleased with the presents, but Indian 
friendships are not always permanent. Some time afterAvard, his 
savage feelings became again excited against the English, and a plan 
was laid for cutting them all off at a blow, Avhicli, but for the inter- 
ference of Pocahontas, would probably have succeeded. The day and 
the hour were set, and Pocahontas was informed of both. 

7. The very night before the deed was to be done, in the midst of a 
terrible storm, which, with the thick darkness, kept the savages in their 
huts, Pocahontas proceeded to Jamestown, and revealed the i)lot. The 
colonists were, therefore, on their guard, and a part of them saved. 
This first Indian plot to massacre the English took place in 1609. 

8. It does not appear that the savages ever found out who revealed 
their plan, for Pocahontas remained at her father's house for some time 
afterward. In the meanwhile, with the aid of Captain Smith, peace 
Avas once more established between the two nations. 

9. Pocahontas, having now become the warm friend of the English, 
came every fcAV days to the fort at Jamestown, with her basket of corn 
for the garrison, which proved of great service to them. At lengtli, 
however, she was stolen by a foraging party of the Avhite people, and 
a large sum was demanded of her father for her ransom. 

10. Powhatan was unwilling to comply with the terras proposed, 
and began to prepare for a war with the English ; and had it not been 
for an event as singular as it w^as unforeseen, a most fatal conflict 
would doubtless have arisen. A young Englishman, by the name of 
Rolfe, proposed to marry Pocahontas, and the proposal met the a^)pro- 
bation of the king. 

11. She accordingly professed the faith of the Cliristian religion, and 
was baptized from a font hewn from the trunk of a tree, in the little 



5. Why did not the Indians take the cannon? C. Wliat plot was soon laid? 7. How 
did Pocahontas save the colony? 8, 9. What of the capture of Pocahontas? 10. How 
was war prevented? 11. What of Pocahontas as a wifo and mother? 



STATE OF THE COLONY. 43 

rugged church at Jamestown. Soon after she was married. She be- 
came a faithful wife and an exemplary and pious mother. Some of the 
principal families in Virginia are descended from this union of a 
young planter with an Indian princess. 

12. In 1616, Pocahontas went with her husband to England, but she 
was unhappy there. Captain Smith, who was in London at the time 
of her arrival, called to see her, but he was a little reserved in his 
manners toward her. This added to the intensity of her feelings, and 
she wept like a child. • 

13. Captain Smith inquired the cause of her grief. " Did I not save 
thy life," said she, "in America? 'When I was torn from the arms of 
my father, and conducted among thy friends, didst thou not promise 
to be a father to me ? Didst thou not say that if I went into thy 
country, thou wouldst be my father, and I should be thy daughter? 
Thou hast deceived me ; and behold me here, now, a stranger and au 
orphan!" 

14. Captain Smith could not resist such eloquence. He introduced 
her to many families of respectability, and did all he could, while she 
remained in England, to make her happy; he never, however, ventured 
to bring her before the king. She fell a victim to the united influence 
of grief and the climate, and died at the age of twenty-two, as she 
was about to re-embark for America. 



CHAPTER XY. 

Depressed State of the Colony. — Arrival of Captain New- 
port and more Ennig rants. — The Gold Fever. — Smithes 
Voyage of Discovery. 

1. DuKiNG the captivity of Captain Smith, he had been carried in 
triumph, by the Indians, from the Chickahominy River to their vil- 
lages on the Rap-pa han'-noc and Po-to'-mac, and thence through their 
other settlements to the Pamunkey river, and finally to the lower resi- 
dence of Powhatan, in what is now called Gloucester {glos'-ter^ county. 

2. "It is an ill wind that blows nobody good," says an old but 
current and just maxim; and the captivity of Smith, though an evil 



12. What of Pocahontas in the year 1G16? 13, 14. What occurred betweeu Pocahontas 
and Captain Smith in England ? What was the fate of Pocahontas? 

Chap. XV.— 1, 2. What good arose from Smith's capture by the Indians? 



44 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

ill itself, had its advantages. It gave liiiii such a knowledge of the 
country, and of the character and condition of the native inhabitants, 
as proved to be of the highest importance afterward, both to him and 
the colony. 

3. We have seen already that the number of the settlers at James- 
town had been much diminished before the massacre of the men wdio 
went out with Smith. Some had also died during his absence. From 
one hundred and five, who came over, he found them reduced, on his 
return, to forty, and of these, a part were contriving to desert the 
colony. 

4. Attempts had been made at desertion twice before. Captain 
Smith resolved to put a stop to this, even if it cost him his life ; and 
he succeeded in accomplishing his object. But the state of things i:: 
Jamestow^n w^as exceedingly discouraging; the government was of no 
force whatever, and every thing would have gone to ruin but for his 
courage and determination, 

5. At this critical period in the history of the colony, Captain New- 
port arrived from England, with one hundred and twenty emigrants. 
The news of this arrival in James River raised the drooping courage 
of the people, and diffused general joy. It is not improbable that the 
spot on the James River which is known by the name of " Newport's 
News," is the point from which his vessel w^as first discovered. 

6. But the joy was of short duration. The new-comers, like too 
many of those who first emigrated, w' ere cliiefly " vagabond gentlemen" 
— as the settlers called them — and goldsmiths. The latter, no doubt, 
came over filled with the idea of obtaining gold. None of them, how- 
ever, expected to earn their living by hard work. All they thought 
or talked of w^as about digging, washing, refining, and carrying away 
the most precious of metals. 

7. Even Martin, one of the council, and Captain Newport himself, 
became absorbed — if, indeed, their brains were not actually turned — 
in the idea of finding gold. Martin claimed, no doubt sincerely, 
that he had discovered a gold mine; and Newport, after loading his 
vessel with what proved in the end to be worthless yellow earth, be- 
lieved himself to be rich, and returned to England. 

8. "Worn out with fruitless endeavors to direct the attention of his 
people to something more important than searching for gold. Captain 
Smith undertook to explore the inlets, rivers, and shores of Chesa- 
peake Bay. This he accomplished, in the course of two voyages, in 
an open boat, and with only fourteen men. 



3. How were the colonists reduced? 4. "Wh:tt of desertions? 5. What of Captain 
Newport ? 6. 7. What of gold? 8, 9. What of Captain Smith's explorations ? 



INCREASE OF THE COLONY 



45 



9. These voyages were undertaken and completed in about three 
months. He ascended the Potomac, above where Washington now 
stands, discovered and explored the Pa-tap'-sco, and, it is thought, 
entered the harbor of Baltimore. The whole distance travelled was 
estimated at about 3,000 miles. 

10. But exploration was not all that Captain Smith accomplished. 
He journeyed into the interior, and made treaties of peace and 
friendship with many tribes of the natives. He also prepared and 
sent over to the London Company a map of the country, which is still 
in existence, and is very correct. This expedition, considering all the 
circumstances, is one of the most remarkable on record ; and displays 
not only skill and perseverance in Smith, but far-sighted and states- 
manlike wisdom. 



1. In three days after his return from his 



CHAPTER XYI. 

Increase of the Colony. — SmiW s Administration of the 
Government. — Failure of his Health. — Ilis Return to 
England. 

second voyage up 
the Chesapeake 
Bay, Captain 
Smith — not yet 
thirty years of 
age — was made 
president of the 
Virginia council. 
It is worthy of 
remark that, of 
the seven mem- 
bers of the coun- 
cil who came 
over about a year 
before, all but 
Smith and Ken- 
dall were now 
dead, or degrad- 




CAPTAIN SMITH PRESIDENT. 



ed, or devoted to the vain and unprofitable pursuit of gold. 



10. "What did Smith do beside exploring the country? 

Chap. XVI — 1. What office was conferred upon Smith ? How old was he ? 



46 HISTORY OF THE UNITED S T A T K S . 

2. Not long after the appointment of JSmith as president, Captain 
Newport came out from England with seventy more emigrants, two 
of whom were women. Of nearly 300 emigrants, who had now come 
over, these appear to have been the only w^omen who had as yet 
ventured to join the colony, 

3. From the complaints of Smith to the London Company, it ap- 
pears that the character of this third set of emigrants was no better 
than that of the former. "I entreat you," says he, "rather send but 
thirty carpenters, husbandmen, gardeners, fishermen, blacksmiths, 
masons, and diggers-up of tree-roots, well provided, than a thousand 
of such as w^e have." 

4. Smith was indefatigable in his endeavors to establish among the 
colonists habits of order and industry. His maxim was, " He who will 
not work should not eat." And he had some success. Several of the 
"gentlemen" colonists became w^ood-cutters. They were required to 
labor six hours a day for tlie common good ; the rest of the time they 
had to themselves. 

5. At length, Jamestow^n began to have the appearance of a regular 
and comfortable abode. It is true that they had as yet scarcely fifty 
acres of soil under cultivation, and were obliged to get their food, in 
part, from the Indians and from England; yet they were now^ im- 
j)roving in their condition. They were also healthier, only seven having 
died during the year 1608.. 

G. Toward the close of this year a fleet of seven vessels arrived, with 
about 300 emigrants. Nine vessels had set out, but two of them had 
been wrecked in the West Indies. But Smith could hardly rejoice at 
the arrival of "rakes and libertines," and people who were " packed 
oflp," as many of them were, "to escape worse destinies at home." 

7. Something, however, must be done wdth them. One plan of his 
was to form new colonies. More than one hundred went up to the 
falls of the James River, and began a settlement ; one hundred more 
settled upon the Nan'-se-mond. Both parties, however, ofi:ended the 
Indians, and were either destroyed or driven away. 

8. A great misfortune now befel the colony of Jamestown. Captain 
Smith, being severely w-ounded by an accident, and almost w^orn out 
with his sufierings and the ingratitude of his employers, departed for 
England, leaving the government, for tlie time, to one Percy. 

9. Captain Smith was, indeed, a most remarkable man, as the facts 



f. What of Captain Newjiort? 3. What coinphiints did Smitli make, to the London 
Company? 4. What eiuloavorg did Smith make? 5. What of Jamestown? 6. Wliat 
took place at tiip close of tlio year 1608? 7. What of new colonies? 8. What great mis- 
fortune befel tho colony now ? 



FAMINE IN THE COLONY. 



47 



we have stated abundantly prove. Few men are so well calculated to 
be pioneers in settling a wilderness as lie was. Few could have seen 
more clearly in what the true interest of a rising colony consisted ; 
and still fewer would have been equally energetic and disinterested. 

10. Feelings — deep and painful — no dvubt he had, for who has them 
not, in situations so trying as 'his? Yet the historian well remarks, 
"that he was the father of Virginia; the true leader who first planted 
the Saxon race witliin the border of the United States." We shall 
have occasion to mention him again, in the history of New England. 
He died in London, in 1631, aged fifty-two years. 



CHAPTEK XYII. 

The Colony on the Verge of Ruin. — Preparations to aban- 
don Jamestoi07i. — Ai'rival of Lord Delaware. — His new 
and successful Governnfient 

1. The departure of Captain Smith for England was like the last 

setting of the sun 
to the colony at 
Jamestown, at 
least for a time. 
No place ever 
went more rapid- 
ly on to ward ruin. 
Order and indus- 
try disappeared, 
and the Indians 
not only became 
less friendly, but 
actually began to 
assume a hostile 
attitude, and to 
renew their out- 

rages. 

2. Nor was this all. The indolence and bad conduct of the settlers 
brought on a famine in the colony. Their want of food became so 




LORD DELAWARE S ARRIVAL. 



9, 10. What of Captain Smith's character? His death? What does the historiau sa.v 
.fhim? 
Chap. XVII.— 1. What eliects had the departure of Captain 8mith? 2. What of famine? 



48 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

distressing that they devoured the skins of horses, as well as the 
bodies of those persons who died or were slain, whether of their own 
party or that of the Indians. To add to the distress, thirty of the 
settlers escaped, and became pirates. 

3. In the short period of six months after Captain Smith's depart- 
ure, the number of the colonists was,- in one way or another, reduced 
from five hundred to sixty. These, however, were so feeble and dis- 
couraged that they were wholly unfit to defend themselves against the 
Indians ; so that the colony was daily and hourly in actual danger of 
perishing. 

4. In this dreadful condition, little short of despair, they resolved to 
return to England. But the decision was scarcely made when one of 
the vessels which had been shipwrecked in the West Indies six months 
before, and whose crew and passengers had wintered there, arrived m 
the river, and landed at Jamestown. 

u. The wretched, despairing colonists were now urged to remain. 
They were, all together, about 200 in number. But no pleadings of 
Sir Thomas Gates, who was their presiding oflicer at the time, could 
prevail with them. Their plan was to sail for Newfoundland, and 
scatter themselves among the vessels engaged in fishing there, and 
thus find their way back to England. 

6. They had four pinnaces remaining in the river, into which they 
entered, though almost without provisions, even for the voyage to 
Newfoundland. They had resolved — strange to say — on burning the 
town when they left it, and the energy of Gates, who, to the last mo- 
ment, endeavored to persuade them to remain, was barely sufficient to 
prevent it, 

7. They actually set sail on their voyage. But just as they reached 
the mouth of the river — such was the ordination of Providence — Lord 
Del'-a-ware, with provisions and more emigrants, arrived from Eng- 
land. This inspired them with a little courage ; and, as there was a 
favorable wind, the whole company bore up the river, and slept that 
aight at the fort in Jamestown. 

8. Lord Delaware began his wise administration next morning, with 
religious exercises, after which he caused his commission to be read ; 
upon which a consultation was held, and a new government organized, 
in accordance with the wishes of the London Company and their 
commissioners. 



3. What took place in the space of six months? 4. What did the colonists resolve to 
do? What of a vessel from the; West Indies? 5. What of Sir Thomas Gates? 6. What 
of the four pinnaces ? 7. What of Lord Delaware ? 8, 9. What of Lord Dolnwnrc's ad- 
ministration? 



PROGRESS OF THE COLONY. 49 

9. Much is said by historians in praise of the wisdom, firmness, and 
piety of Lord Delaware. Ifc is recorded that the first business of each 
day was to assemble early in the morning in their " little church, which 
was kept trimmed with the wild flowers of the country,^' and there 
to invoke the presence and blessing of God, after which they repaired 
to their daily labors. 



CHAPTEE XYin. 

Progress of the Colony at Jamestown. — Lord Delaware's 
Governfuent. — Administration of Governor Dale. 

1. Every thing now wore a better appearance. Famine no longer 
stared the colonists in the face ; their health was improved consider- 
ably ; and the Indians were less troublesome than they had been. 
Under the administration of Lord Delaware, the people began to enjoy 
not only safety, but comfort. Their wretched cabins were even ex- 
changed for framed houses covered with boards. 

2. Unfortunately for the colony. Lord Delaware's health failed, and 
he returned to England. He was succeeded, however, soon after his 
departure, by Sir Thomas Dale. This governor made an important 
change in the condition of the colony. Hitherto they had held their 
property and labored in common. Governor Dale assigned to each 
settler a lot of three acres to cultivate as his own. The quantity was 
afterward increased to fifty acres. 

8. In September, 1611, six ships and 300 new emigrants arrived. 
There must have been also other arrivals during the year, for it is the 
concurrent testimony of historians that the population was at this time 
about 700. Among other things which came were 112 cows, 20 goats, 
200 swine, and a large stock of provisions. It must be remembered 
that none of these domestic animals were natives of America ; a fact 
which we have already stated. 

4. A new colony was formed this year, further up the river, and 
enclosed with a palisade ; it was named Hen-ri'-co {ree'-co\ in honor of 
Henry, the eldest son of king James, then on the throne of England. 
Another settlement, five miles from Henrico, was called New Ber- 
mu'-da. There was peace now with the Indians, and this peace was 



Chap. XVIII. — 1. What good consequences flowed from the administration of Lord 
Delaware ? 2. What of Sir Thomas Dale ? Division of property ? 3. What occurred in 
September, 1611? What of domestic animals? New colonies? Peace? Eolfe and 
Pocahontas ? 



50 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

{)i-olonged by the nmrriage, in 1018, of Kolie with Pocahontas — an 
event which has already been mentioned. 

5. Tobacco, which, as we have stated, had been discovered by Co- 
lumbus in liis first voyage, and had now come into use, was first intro- 
duced into Virginia in the year 1614. In 1615, the fields, the gardens, 
and even the streets and squares of Jamestown were planted with it, 
and its culture was found highly profitable. 

6. It does not appear that more than two women came over till 
1611, w^hen twenty arrived. In 1620, when the number of the colo- 
nists was suddenly raised from six hundred to eighteen hundred and 
sixty, there was a reinforcement of ninety "respectable young women," 
according to the language of the historians. They were procured by 
the planters as wives, by. paying from one hundred to one hundred and 
fifty pounds of tobacco each, to defray the expenses of their passage. 

7. A number of unfortunate measures were adopted about this time. 
One was the sending over to the colony, as laborers, by order of king 
James, one hundred criminals; another, the introduction of the silk 
manufacture, for which the colony was not yet prepared. At this 
period twenty African slaves were purchased from the commander of 
a Dutch vessel — these being the first introduced into the English set- 
tlements. 

8. There were frequent and numerous changes in the oflBcers of the 
government, especially that of the chief magistrate, near this period, 
and some changes, also, in the mode of administration. Still the 
colony was more flourishing in 1620 than at any former period. Within 
three years fifty patents of land had been granted, and three thousand 
five hundred new emigrants received. There were now in the com- 
monwealth eleven parishes and five ministers. 

9. Such were the difficulties and dangers which beset the colony or 
Virginia, the earliest successful English settlement in North America. 
Such was the founding of the state of Virginia, now one of the most 
extensive and populous states of our federal Union. 



5. Tobacco? 6. What of the arrival of women in 1620? 7. What mistakes were com^ 
matted? 8. Changes in the government? Land patents ? 9. "What of the first colony at 
the present day? 



SETTLEMENT OF NEW YORK. 



51 



CHAPTER XIX. 

Discoveries of Henry Hudson. — SeUlerrient of New 
hy the Hutch. 

1 . While the colony of Virginia was thus 



York 



advanchig, another 
settlement, to the 
north, had been ei^- 
tablished. The isl- 
and of Man-hat'- 
tan, on which the 
city of New York 
was afterwards 
built, was first dis- 
covered by Cap- 
tain Henry Hud- 
son, in 1609. This 
person was the 
distinguished nav- 
igator who made 
discoveries to the 
northward of Can- 
ada and Labra- 
dor, and explored the large bay in that quarter which is called by his 
name to this day. 

2. He was by birth an Englishman, but had been sent by the Dutch 
East India Company to try to find the East Indies by sailing in a north- 
westerly direction. Unable to proceed on account of the ice, he re- 
turned to Newfoundland, and coasted along the shores of the United 
States, discovering Manhattan Island, where New York now stands, 
and at the same time sailing up and giving name to what has since 
been called the North Eiver, and more commonly Hudson's Eiver. 

3. As he was in the service of the Dutch* when he made these 
discoveries, the Dutch government claimed the country. The Eng- 
lish, however, set up an earlier claim to it, as being a part of North 




DUTCH TRADING WITH THE INDIANS. 



Chap. XIX.— 1. What of Henry Hudson ? 2. Hudson's birth ? Object of his voyage? 
His discovery of the Hudson Eiver, «fec. ? 8. Why were his discoveries claimed for the 
benefit of the Dutch? 

* The name Dutch is applied to the inhabitants of what is now called Holland, and 
which, in history, passes under the various names of Netherlands and Lov) Coitntriei^. 
An inhabitant of this country is called D&uUicher, in his own language, whence we have 
the name Dutch. 



52 HISTORY OF TUE UNITED STATES. 

Virginia. They also maintained that, as Hudson was an English sub- 
ject, the countries he discovered were theirs. 

4. But the Dutch were determined to hold the territory, if possible. 
They, therefore, in 1610, opened a trade with the natives at Manhat- 
tan Island, on the spot where the city of New York now stands, and 
erected a fort on or near the present site of Albany. To the country 
in general they gave the name of New Neth'-er-lands ; and to the 
station on Manhattan Island, when it afterwards came to be settled, 
that of New Am'-ster-dam. 

5. In 1613, Captain Argall, of Virginia, who had sailed to the north 
to break up a settlement the French were forming on the Pe-nob'-scot 
Kiver, stopped at New York on his return, and demanded the surrender 
of the island of Manhattan, and indeed of the whole country, to the 
British king. 

6. But though the Dutch yielded their claim at this time, it was 
simply because they were unable to defend it ; the Dutch traders con- 
tinued to occupy it, and a new Dutch governor, in 1614, threw off the 
English yoke, and put the fort at New Amsterdam in a position of de- 
fence. The desire of the Dutch to hold the place is not surprising, for 
a very profitable trade with the Indians for furs of various kinds had 
been established ; in 1 624, the skins of beavers and other wild animals 
which they obtained were valued at over ten thousand dollars. 

7. The Dutch continued to resist the claims of the English to the 
country till the year 1664, and, in the mean time, kept up a profitable 
trade with the natives. The progress of the settlement was, however, 
exceedingly slow as long as it remained in the hands of the Dutch, 



CHAPTER XX. 

Yai'ious Settlements in New England. — Captain Smithes 
Survey of the Coast. 

1. Leaving for a brief space the Dutch settlements in what has since 
become the great state of New York, we turn our attention to New 
England. Nothing had been known as to the interior of this region 
till the year 1605. Captain Gosnold had, indeed, explored the coasts, 
and attempted a settlement on Elizabeth Island, in 1602, but with- 
out success. The country went by the general name of North Vir- 



4. What did the Dutch do? t>. What occurred in 1613? 6. What took place in 1614? 
What of the fur trade ? 7. What of the Dutch and the English claims? 
Chap. XX.— 1. What of New England? 



THE PLYMOUTH COMPANY 



53 




CAPTAIN WEYMOUTH EXHIBITING INDIANS IN ENGLAND 



ginia, South Virginia extending only so far north as to include tlie 

country near the 
mouth of Hud- 
son's River. 

2. About the 
year 1G05, Cap- 
tainWey '-mouth, 
an Englishman, 
while searching 
for a north-west 
passage to the 
East Indies, dis- 
covered the Pe- 
nob'-scot Eiver, 
in Maine, and car- 
ried home five 
of the native In- 
dians with him, 

to be educated. These Indians excited great curiosity in England ; 

and their accounts of the country led other navigators to tlie same 

coast. 

3. There was a company formed in England about this time, called 
*.he Plymouth Company, whose object was to prosecute discoveries 
and make settlements along the coast of North Virginia, as the Lon- 
don Company were then about to do with regard to the coast of Soutli 
Virginia. 

4. In 1606, the Plymouth Company sent out two ships of discovery, 
under Captains Cha-long' and Prynne. The former took Mdth him 
two of the five Indians brought over by Captain Weymouth. But he 
did not reach America, for his vessel was taken by the Spaniards, and 
he himself carried a prisoner to Spain. 

5. Captain Prynne, more successful, surveyed the coasts of the coun- 
try very extensively, and carried with him to England such a glowing 
account of its excellent harbors, rivers, forests, and fisheries, that, in 
1607, one hundred adventurers, in two ships, went out to seek their 
fortune in America. Yet, so filled were the minds of Europeans with 
ideas of the mineral riches of America, that even in the depths of the 
green woods, these emigrants expected to find " mines of gold, and 
silver, and diamonds." 

6. They first fell iT\ with the island of Mon-he'-gan, on the coast of 



2. Captain Weymouth? S. The Plymouth Company? 
5. What of Captain Prynne? What occurred in 1007? 

5* 



4. What was done in 1606? 



54 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

Maine, but landed at the mouth of the Ken'-ne-bec River, then called 
the Sa-ga-da-hoc'. They settled at Parker's Island, and built a fort on 
it, which was named Fort George. They brought with them two 
more of the five Indians taken away by Captain Weymouth ; and this 
procured them a welcome from all the Indian tribes. 

7. The Penobscot Indians were, at this time, the ruling tribe from 
Salem to No'-va Sco'-tia, then called A-ca'-di-a. Pleased with the new 
settlers, their chief acknowledged subjection to the English king, and 
sent his son to visit the colony, and opened a trade with them for furs. 
Happy had it proved if the friendly intercourse thus begun on our 
coast had been continued. 

8. In December of this year, the ships returned to England; forty - 
live of the adventurers remained behind. These, however, were soon 
discouraged. The winter was excessively severe, and, not having 
brought over a very liberal supply of provisions, they were reduced to 
the necessity of living upon fish and very lean game, and finally upon 
dogs' flesh. They returned to England with the next vessel, and gave 
up the colony. 

9. A strange story used to be told of these settlers by one of the 
Indian tril)es residing on the Kennebec; but it does not comport very 
Avell with other accounts of their pacific disposition. However, as it is 
quite possible the deed described may have been perpetrated by some 
white people, it may be well to relate it. If true, we cannot wonder 
at the subsequent hatred and revenge of the savages. 

10. The English, it is said, employed the Indians, on a certain oc- 
casion, to draw one of their cannons into the fort, by taking hold, 
unitedly, of a long rope fastened to it. As soon as they were formed 
in a straight line, delighted with the sport, the cannon was discharged, 
and a great part of the Indians were killed or wounded. 

11. In 1614, Captain John Smith, the South Virginia adventurer, 
sailed from England, with two ships, on a voyage of discovery, to the 
coasts of North Virginia. Arriving at Monhegan Island, in Maine, he 
built several boats, such as would better answer his purposes than 
larger vessels ; and, in one of these boats, with eight men, he traversed 
the whole coast from Penobscot to Cape Cod, and made many dis- 
coveries. 

12. On his return to England, he prepared a map of the coast 
from Maine to Long Island Sound, most of which he had seen and ob- 
served during his journey. To many of the capes, points, islands, etc., 



G. What, of the .settlement in Maine? 7. The Penobscot Indians? 8. What of thq 
f olony? 9, 10. What strange story is told by the Indians? 11. What of Captain Smltli 
in 1614? 12. What did Smith do on his return? 



FIRST SETTLEMENT OF NEW ENGLAND. 



OO 



of this region, he gave tlie names thej now bear. The map was pre- 
sented to the king's son, afterward Charles I., who named the country, 
in general, New England. 

13. Captain Smith, on leaving the coast, had left one of his vessels 
to procure a cargo of fish for the Spanish market. But Hunt, the 
commander, decoyed on board twenty-seven Indians, whom he carried 
away and sold for slaves. This act, so well calculated to excite the 
enmity of the natives, no doubt, afterward caused the death of thou- 
sands of unoffending men, women, and children. 



CHAPTER XXI. 

The Puritans^ the first Seitlers of New England, 

1. The first permanent settlement in New England was made in 1620, 
. V. by a company of 

men, women, and 
children, called 
Puritans. They 
were a pious and 
excellent people, 
but somewhat pe- 
culiar in their re- 
ligious opinions 
and habits. 

2. The Puritans 
were desirous of 
what they deem- 
ed a purer wor- 
ship of God than 
that of the na- 
tional church of 
England, and on this account had separated themselves from that 
church, and thus became exposed to a religious persecution, which, in 
1607, drove them, with their pastor, to Amsterdam, in Holland. 

3. This pastor was the Eev. John Robinson. Under his pious care 
they remained a year in Amsterdam, whence they found it desirable to 
remove to Leyden \li'-den\. The flames of persecution continuing to 




MR. ROBINSON PREACHING IN HOLLAND 



13. What of Hunt, the commander of one of the vessels? 

Chap. XXI.— 1. What of the Puritans? 2. Why did some of them go to Amsterdam? 

Their pastor? Where did they remove to? 



56 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

rage in England, they were joined by many of their countrymen, and 
the congregation became in a few years large and respectable. 

4. 'Yet they never felt themselves at home in Holland. They were 
tttrangers and sojourners there, and likely to remain so. Many were 
their reasons, some of them weighty, for refusing to settle down per- 
manently among the Dutch. They were on the look-out, therefore, for 
a resting-place. 

5. Just at this time, an asylum was opened to them in the wilds of 
America. In that untrodden country, as they deemed, tliey could be 
entirely free from persecution and tyranny. There they could read 
their bibles by their own firesides, undisturbed, and worship God as 
their own conscience told them was right. They could also transmit 
to their children and grandchildren the same privileges. . 

6. Having procured a vessel, the Speedwell, of sixty tons, they 
made preparations to depart for America. Before leaving Holland, 
however, they kept a day of fasting and prayer. They then w^ent to 
Delft'-ha-ven, about twenty miles from Leyden, and thence to South- 
ampton, in England. Here they were joined by a company of their 
Puritan friends from London, in a vessel of one hundred and eighty 
tons, called the Mayflower. 

7. Their little fleet being in readiness, they set out, August 15th, for 
America; not, however, till they had spent a parting hour with their 
friends, whose faces they were to see no more, in religious services. 
A little w^ay out of port, the Speedwell sprang a leak, and they were 
obliged to return for repairs. They sailed again, but again the vessel 
failed ; and she w^as at length condemned as unseaworthy. 

8. One hundred and two of the Puritans now crowded themselves 
into one vessel, the Mayflower, and made a final embarkation. This 
was September 16, 1620. The w^eather, as might have been feared at 
this season, proved unfavorable, and they were more than two months 
in reaching the shores of Cape Cod. 

9. It had been their intention to settle further south, near the Hud- 
son ; and, with this view, they had procured a patent of the London 
Company. But winter was now nigh, Hudson's River far off, and per- 
ilous shoals and breakers lay between. They therefore gave up their 
original plan, and sought a landing-place near where they were. 

10. On the 21st of November, sixty-six days after leaving South- 
ampton, they found themselves at anchor in Cape Cod harbor near the 

4. "Why did they not consider Holland a home ? 5. What prospect opened to them ? 
Why did they cherish the idea of going to America? 6. "What of the departure of the 
pilgrims? 7. What of their progress? 8. What of the Mayflower? 9. What had been 
the design of the pilgrims? "What change of plan did they adopt? 10. What occurred 
on the 21st of November, 1620? 



THE PURITANS AT CAPE COD. 



6r 



present town of Tru'-ro ; having lost, during their long and perilous 
passage, but one man, 

11. Before landing, they formed, in the cabin of the Mayflower, a 
solemn compact for their future safety and government, which was 
signed by forty-one of the number — the rest being women and children 
— and John Carver was immediately chosen governor of the colony 
for one year. 



CHAPTER XXII. 

The Picritans at Cape Cod. 

1. A GOVERNMENT having been formed for their mutual well-being 

and preserva- 
tion, the emi- 
grants were now 
ready to land 
and explore the 
country. The 
prospect was not 
very inviting, es- 
pecially at such a 
season,butitwas 
their only re- 
source ; and six- 
teen men were 
deputed for the 
purpose. 

2. In their first 
attempts to go 
ashore,the water 
was so shallow that they were obliged to wade a considerable distance, 
and many of them took severe colds, which, in some instances, appeared 
to lay the foundation of what we usually term quick consumption. 
They found nothing, moreover, on shore but woods and sand-hills. 
They had gone out armed, but had not been molested. 

3. The next day, November 22, was the Sabbath. On this day they 
rested, "according to the commandment" and their uniform custom. 




THE PURITANS WADING ASHORE. 



11. What did they do before landing? 

Chap. XXIL— 1. What of going ashore? 2. What happened to the party? 
occurred November 22 and 23 ? 
3* 



What 



58 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

On Monday, the men went on shore to refresh themselves and make 
further discoveries; the women went also, attended by a guard, to 
wash some of the clothing, 

4. This same day, they also began to repair their shallop for the 
purpose of coasting, the Mayflower being too large and unwieldy for 
convenience. It was a slow task, however, for the carpenter did not 
complete the necessary repairs till sixteen or seventeen days had 
elapsed, and winter was now at hand. 

5. On Wednesday, November 25, a party of sixteen men, commanded 
by Captain Miles Standish, and w^ell armed, went out to make discov- 
eries. When about a mile from the sea they saw five Indians, who, at 
sight of their new visitors, immediately fled. The latter pursued them 
ten miles, but did not overtake them. They had gone so far, however, 
that they were obliged to kindle a fire and sleep in the woods. 

6. The next day they found several heaps of sand, one of which 
was covered with mats, and an earthen pot lay at one end of it. On 
digging, they found a box and arrows, upon which they concluded it 
was an Indian grave, and accordingly replaced every thing as they had 
found it. 

7. In another place they found a large kettle, and near it another 
pile of sand, in which, on a close examination, was found a basket con- 
taining three or four bushels of Indian corn. "This providential dis- 
covery," says Holmes, in his Annals, "gave them seed for a future 
harvest, and preserved tlie infant colony from famine." 

8. One fact should be mentioned, which shows what sort of men 
these were. Though they took away the kettle and a part of the 
corn, it was with the firm intention to return the kettle if ever tliey 
found an owner, and pay for the corn ; and to their honor be it re- 
corded that they actually found the owners afterward, and liberally 
paid them. 

9. In the course of the same day, they found more graves, and the 
ruins of an Indian hut or house ; and in one place a number of pali- 
sadoes, or stakes and postr, framed together like a wall. They also 
saw a trap set for deer, in which one of the party was caught, though 
without much injury. 

10. After sleeping a second night in the woods, they returned to 
their companions, who received them witli great joy. It was about 
this time that the first white New England child w^as born. His name 
was Per'-e-grine White, and he lived to be eighty -four years old. 

4. What of the shallop? 5. What occurred on tlie 2r)Ui? 6. What did they find the 
next day? 7. What other things did they find ? What of corn? S. Did the Puritans 
pay for the kettle and corn they took? 9. What other things did the party find? 10. 
The return of the party ? The first child ? 



SURVEYS OF THE SHORE. 



59 



CHAPTEK XXIIL 

Further Surveys of the Shore. — Meeting with Indians. — 
The Landing at Plymouth. 

1. It was the IGth of December wheu the shallop was ready. Four 

of the principal 
men, wi^ eight 
or ten seamen, 
immediatelj set 
out on a tour of 
discovery. Snow 
had already fall- 
en, and the weath- 
er was so severe 
that the spray of 
the sea, falling 
•upon their coats, 
and freezing, 
made them look 
like coats of mail. 
'th^ LANDING. Thcy slept the 

first night on 
company divided, and a 




the 



board the boat ; but the next morning 
part traveled by land. 

2. As they went on, they found an Indian burying-ground, sur- 
rounded by palisadoes, and many graves with stakes around them. 
But they saw no living person, nor any place suitable to be the habita- 
tion of living men. They met at night with their friends of the shallop, 
and the whole party slept on shore by a fire. 

3. They rose at five next morning, but had scarcely finished their 
prayers, when the guard they had set cried out, "Indians! Indians!" 
and a shower of arrows fell among them, accompanied by such yells 
as they had never before heard. They were struck with surprise, but 
recovered in a moment; and row the Indians were as much terrified 
by the report of their ^r ,.i as the emigrants had been by the war- 
whoop. They thought the explosions were thunder and lightnina:, and 
fled. 

4. The arrows were preserved as curiosities by t£e English, for they 
were the first they had seen. They were pointed with deer's horn and 



Chap. XXIII. — 1. What happened on the 16th of December? 2. What of Indian graves, 
etc.? 8. What of the arrival of Indians? 4. Indian arrows? 



60 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

eagle's claws. Their assailants were of a tribe who remembered Hunt, 
the kidnapper of their people, and it was no wonder that they sought 
revenge for the past, or defence against future molestation. 

5. The exploring party now went on board the shallop, which pur- 
sued its course along the northern shore of the Cape, toward what 
is now Plym'-outh. They sought for a convenient harbor, but none 
was to be found. At last the pilot, who had some knowledge of the 
coast, assured them that he knew of a good one far ahead, but which, 
with mflfch exertion, might possibly be reached that night. 

6. " They follow his guidance. After sailing some hours, a storm 
of snow and rain begins. The sea swells ; the rudder breaks ; and the 
shallop must now be steered with oars. The storm increases, and night 
is at hand. To reach the harbor before dark, as much sail as possible 
is borne ; the mast breaks into three pieces ; the sail falls overboard. 
But the tide is favorable. 

7. " The pilot," says Bancroft, "in dismay, would have run the ves- 
sel on shore in a cove full of breakers. ' About with her,' exclaimed 
a sailor, 'or we are cast away.' They get her about immediately; 
and, passing over the surf, they enter a fair sound, and shelter them- 
selves under the lee of a small rise of land. 

8. " It is dark, and the rain beats furiously ; yet the men are so wet, 
and cold, and weak, that they slight the danger to be apprehended 
from the savages, and, after great difficulty, kindle . a fire on shore. 
Morning, as it dawned, showed the place to be a small island within 
the entrance of the harbor." 

9. The day which had dawned was Saturday. They not only spent 
this in quiet rest, but also -the following day. It is interesting to ob- 
serve the pious regard these Puritans had for the Sabbath. Though 
their friends on board the Mayflower were waiting in suspense, and 
every thing required the utmost haste, they would not proceed on Sun- 
day if they could help it. 

10. When the Sabbath was over, and they had examined the coun- 
try, they determined to make it the place of their settlement. They 
were particularly pleased with its pleasant brooks and woods, and the 
excellent land. The soil of both the mainland and two islands ad- 
jacent was covered with walnut, beech, pine, and sassafras trees; and 
numerous cornfields were also to be seen. It was December 21st when 
they made the landing ; and this is the day which should be kept as 
the anniversary of the interesting event. 

11. They proceeded to convey the intelligence of these things to 

5-8 "What account does Bancroft jrive ? 9. What of Saturday, Sunday and Monday 
following? 10. Why did they return to settle in the place thoy had found? 11. What 
of the landing? 



SETTLEMENT AT PLYMOUTH. 61 

their friends on board the ship, which forthwith came to the shore, at 
the point fixed npon. On the 30th of December, after landing and 
viewing the place again, they concluded to settle upon the mainland 
on the high ground, amid the cornfields. 



CHAPTEE XXIY. 

Settlement of Plymouth. — Two m^en get lost in the Woods, 
and are greatly frightened hy the Wolves. 

1. The next day after the Puritans landed, they began to cut timber 
for building, and in a few days to commence the erection of cottages, 
or, as we should say, log-houses. They continued at this work, when- 
ever the weather would admit, till about the first of March, by which 
time they had formed quite a village. 

2. The colony consisted of nineteen families. Each family, for the 
sake of expedition, had built its own cottage ; but they all united in 
the erection of a storehouse, twenty feet square, for general use and 
con*^enience. They called the place Plymouth, after the town of the 
same name they had left behind them in their native country. 

3. The first Sabbath after they landed was observed with unusual 
solemnity. Some kept it on board the Mayflower, and others in their 
new houses — which being made, as has already been said, of logs, very 
soon afforded them a partial shelter. 

4. On the 12th of January, 1621, three weeks after the arrival, two 
persons, named Goodman and Brown, walked into the woods to collect 
something for stopping the crevices between the logs of their houses. 
They lost their way, and were obliged to remain in the forest, although 
it snowed furiously and was very cold. 

5. But this was not all. About midnight they heard a strange 
howling in the woods around them. At first it appeared to be a good 
way off", but it gradually came nearer. They imagined it to proceed 
from lions, and were excessively frightened. 

6. In their alarm they sought a tree which they could ascend in a 
moment, should the danger become imminent. They then continued 
to walk round it, but were ready to leap upon it. It would have been 
a cold lodging-place in the middle of winter, and in a severe snow- 



Chap. XXIY.— 1. What did the Puritans do after landing? 2. How many families did 
the colony consist of ? AVliat did they erect ? Why did they call the place Plymouth? 
8. What of the first Sahbath after their landing? 4-7. What happened to Goodman and 
Brown ? 



62 



HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 



storm ; and though it might have saved them from the wolves whicli 
caused their fright, they would probably have frozen to death. 

7. Fortunately, however, they did not perish, though the morning 
found them faint with hunger and cold, and Goodman's feet were so 
frozen that his friends were obliged to cut off his shoes. Their being 
compelled to walk round the tree all night, tedious and distressing as 
it had been to them, doubtless saved tlieir lives. 



CHAPTER XXY. 

Severe Sufferings of the Plymouth Colonists. 

1. The winter of 1620-21, as we have already seen, was severe, even 

for the severe 
climate of New 
England. The 
beginning of 
March brought 
a south wind 
and warm wea- 
ther ; and the 
birds began to 
sing in the 
\7 o o d s most 
merrily. The 
green grass also 
began to appear, 
hastened by the 
vernal sun and 
warm showers. 

2. But the colonists did not all live to see the return of spring and 
summer. Their sufferings had been so great, especially after their ar- 
rival on the coast, that, as one historian testifies, about half of them 
were wasting away with consumptions and lung fevers. Beside this, 
their labor in erecting their cottages was very great. 

3. Of the one hundred and one persons who landed, by the first of 
April all but forty-six were dead, including among them Mr, Carver, 
the governor, his wife, and a son. Such was the debility of the living 
that they had hardly been able to bury the dead. Nor had the healthy 




■VMM J 1. AT I'L^ MOUTH. 



Chap. XXV.— 1. Wliat of t)ie winter? March? 2, S. W!iat of doaths and snlferings? 



SUFFERINGS OF THE PLYMOUTH COLONISTS. 63 

been able, at all times, to take care of the sick ; for at one period there 
were only seven persons wlio called themselves well, in the whole 
colony. 

4. Happy for them was it, that spring came on thns early and favor- 
ably, and with it returning health and vigor to the surviving. It is 
Avorthy of remark, that of those who withstood the sorrows and dan- 
gers of this terrible winter, the far greater part lived to an extreme 
old age. 

5. But new distresses were in reserve for them. The provisions 
they had brought out from England, together with what they could 
raise and procure afterward, were but just sufficient to sustain them 
through the next winter, and until a second crop of corn could be ob- 
tained. Yet, in November, 1G21, a ship, with thirty-five emigrants, 
arrived, wholly out of provisions, and dependent on the colonists. 

6. This reduced them to half allowance for six months, and a part 
of the time to still greater extremities ; for it is said that for two months 
they went without bread. "I have seen men stagger," says Wins'- 
low, who w^as one of their number, " by reason of faintness for want 
of food." Sometimes they depended on fish ; at others they bought 
provisions, at enormous prices, of ships that came upon the coast. 

7. Nor did their sufl:erings very soon terminate. As late as 1623, 
their provisions were at times so nearly exhausted that the}^ knew not 
at night what they should eat the next morning. It is said that in one 
instance they had only a pint of corn in the whole settlement, which, 
on being divided, gave them but five kernels each. It appears, indeed, 
that for months together they had no corn or grain at all. 

8. Milk, as yet, they had not, for neat cattle were not introduced 
among them till the fourth year of their settlement. When any of 
their old friends from England arrived to join them, a lobster or a 
piece of fish, with a cup of water, was often the best meal w^hich tlie 
richest of them could furnish. 

9. Yet, during all these trials, from hunger, fatigue, sickness, loss 
of friends, and many other sources, their confidence in God never once 
forsook them. Their sufferings even bound them together as by a 
closer tie, and while they loved one another better than before, their 
artectionate devotion and confidence in God seemed to increase in the 
same proportion. 



4. Spring? 5, G What did they sufftn- during the year? 7. What of the want of corn 
and bread? 8. What of inillc? What did they set before their friends? 9. How did the 
pilgrims bear thoir trials? AVhat effect did those produce ? 



64: 



HiSTORi^ OF THE UNITED STATES, 



CHAPTER XXVI. 

Arrival of the Indian Samoset — Treaty with the Massa- 
chusetts and other Indian Tribes. 

1. In March, 1621, just before Governor Carver's death, an Indian 

chief, by the name 
of Sam'-o-set, ar- 
rived at the vil- 
lage. He had 
seen some of the 

^M,\ English fisher- 
,\% men at Penob- 
~^^ ' scot, and learned 
a little broken 
English, and his 
first words to 
those he met with 
on entering the 
town were, "Wel- 
come, English- 
men!" This dis- 
pelled their fears, 
and gave them courage to enter into conversation with him. 

2. Samoset was naked, except a leathern belt about his waist, with 
a wide fringe. He was tall, straight, and strong ; his hair long behind 
and short before, and he had no beard. He had with him a bow and 
arrows — the usual weapons of war used by his countrymen. 

3. The settlers received him kindly, entertained him as well as they 
were able, and lodged him for the night. In the morning they gave 
him a horseman's coat, a knife, a bracelet, and a ring. Upon this he 
departed, promising to make them another visit in a few days. He 
was a kind of under-sachem or chief of the great tribe of the Wam- 
pa-no'-ags. 

4. He came to them again, in a few days, according to his promise, 
and brought five more Indians with him. They sang and danced be- 
fore the settlers in the most familiar and friendly way, and parted in 
an amicable manner. 

5. Shortly afterward other Indians came to the village, and said 




GOVERNOR CARVER AND MASSASOIT MAKING A TREATY. 



Chap. XXVI.— 1. "What of Samoset? 2. His dress ? 3. How was he received ? What 
was his rank ? 4. What of more Indians? 



A TREATY IS MADE WITH THE INDIANS 65 

that Mas-sa-so'-it, the great chief of all the tribes in the south-eastern 
part of Massachusetts, was near by. He soon made his appearance on 
the top of a hill, with sixty of his men. The Englishmen were at 
first afraid of such a body of savages ; for their whole number, men, 
women, and children, did not exceed fifty. 

6. Mr. Winslow was sent out to make a treaty with them. He car- 
ried Mas-sa-so^-it two knives, and a copper chain with a jov;el in it; 
and to his brother, Qua-da-pi^-na, he gave a knife, a jewel for his ear, 
some biscuit and butter, and a pot of " strong water," or ardent spirits 
Mr. Winslow satisfied the two chiefs, and invited them to the village. 

7. They accepted the invitation, and, with twenty of their men, 
came to the town to see Governor Carver. To convince the villagers 
that they were friendly, they left their bows and arrows behind them 
on the hill. Mr, Winslow, on the other hand, to assure the Indians 
that their companions should not be hurt by the guns, that is, the 
"thunder and lightning" of the villagers, staid with the party on the 
hill. 

8. A great deal of parade was made by the governor in receiving 
them. His soldiers met them at the foot of the hill, and, with drums 
and trumpets sounding, conducted them to his house, where, after 
Governor Carver and Massasoit had kissed each other's hands, they sat 
down on a green rug which was spread for them. 

9. The Indians, like all ignorant or savage people, were greatly de- 
lighted with these attentions. Food was set before them, and " strong 
water" was given to the king ; of which, it is said, he drank so freely 
that it made him " sweat all the while." A treaty was made, which 
was kept faithfully for fifty years. 

10. It was this same Massasoit who taught the English to cultivate 
maize, or Indian corn, the first of which was planted in the May 
following — that is, in 1621. Through his influence, moreover, nine 
smaller chiefs, who had before been suspicious of the English — partly, 
no doubt, because they had stolen their countrymen — subscribed, as 
Massasoit had done, a treaty of peace. 

11. The English had an opportunity, soon after this, of returning tlie 
favors of Massasoit and Samoset. The Nar-ra-gan'-sets, a powerful 
tribe of Rhode Island Indians, made war upon Massasoit. After there 
had been a good deal of hard fighting, the English interfered in behalf 
of ]!tIassasoit, and the Narragansets were glad to make peace. 

12. It was not long after this time that the first duel was fought in 



5. Massasoit? 6. Mr. "Winslow? 7. "What took place when the Indians came to the 

village? 8. What did Governor Carver do? 9. How were the Indians pleased? "What 

of the treaty? 10. "What more of Massasoit? 11. The Narragansets? 
6* 



6Q HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

New England, It was between two servants, with sword and dagger. 
They were tried for their crime by the whole colony, and sentenced to 
be tied together, neck and heels, for twenty-four hours, without food 
or drink. A part of the punishment, however, was, in the end, re- 
mitted. 



CHAPTER XXYII. 

The Colony threatened hy the Warraganset Indians. — 
Drought and Scarcity. — Governor Bradford journey e 
among the Indians. 

1. GovEKNOK Caever had died about the end of March, 1621, and 
Mr. Bradford, afterward the historian of the province, had succeeded 
him. Governor Bradford was much loved and revered for his public 
spirit, wisdom, and piety, and was continued in his office nearly the 
whole time till his death, about forty years in all, 

2. The corn this year proved to be abundant and excellent. The 
summer grain was not so good. But the settlers found plenty of 
ducks and other wild-fowl, as well as fish, and these were of great 
service to them in the way of food. Still they sometimes suffered 
from scarcity, 

8. About this time, Ca-non'-i-cus, sachem of the Narragansets, for- 
getting or disregarding the treaty he had made, sent to the Plymouth 
people a bundle of arrows tied up with a serpent's skin, which was 
the sign of war. Governor Bradford returned the skin, wrapped round 
some powder and ball. The Indians were so frightened that they 
dared not touch it. They sent it back again, and gave up the medi- 
tated hostilities. 

4, The English, however, from this circumstance, took the hint, and 
began to fortify their settlement. It had, from the first, been laid out 
into streets and lots. They now surrounded the whole with a wall, 
called a stockade. Their guns were mounted on a kind of tower, built 
on the top of the town hill, with a flat roof — the lower story serving 
them for a church, 

5. As a further preparation to defend themselves, should there be an 
invasion, the men and boys of the settlement were divided into four 



12. The first duel in New England ? 

Chap. XXVII.— 1. Governor Carver? Governor Bradford? 2. Corn and grain in 
1621? 8. Canonicus? 4. Why did the colonists fortify their settlement? How did they 
do this? 5 Wliat of Captain Miles Standish ? 



PROGRESS OF THE PLYMOUTH COLONY. (37 

squadrons, which alternately kept guard night and day. Captain Miles 
Standish, a young man distinguished for his bravery, was made the 
commander-in-chief. 

6. The harvest of 1(')22, owing to a drought, was scanty, and the 
colonists were obliged to buy food of the Indians. Governor Bradford 
travelled among them for this purpose, and Squan'-to, a friendly Indian, 
accompanied him. They procured twenty-eight hogsheads of corn, 
for which they paid in knives, blankets, beads, &c. Squanto sickened 
and died while on this tour. When dying, he asked Governor Brad- 
ford to pray that he "might go to the Englishman's heaven." 

7. But Squanto, anxious as he was to "die the death of the righte- 
ous," was, in life, more artful and cunning than honest. Still, it is not 
to be denied that he employed his cunning in favor of the English. 
The Indians dreaded him as a sort of conjurer; and he took advantage 
of their fear to impose upon them, by relating to them great stories 
about the military skill and power of the English. 

8. Up to the spring of 1623, the Plymouth colonists had labored in 
common. But some of them, as it tad been at Jamestown, would in 
this way be idle. It was at length ordered that every family should 
work by itself, and should be furnished with land in proportion to its 
numbers. Under this system, the idlers soon disappeared. Even the 
women and children went to work in the fields. 

9. The next year land was assigned to the people to be theirs forever. 
From this time forth there was no instance in the colony of a general 
scarcity of food. Indeed, before many summers had passed away, 
they had corn to sell to the Indians, in greater abundance than the 
latter had ever sold to them. 

10. In the progress of the year 1624, new emigrants came over, and 
brought with them cattle, with a few swine, and some poultry ; also 
clothing and provisions. The colony now contained thirty -two houses, 
and one hundred and eighty inhabitants. The fields and gardens began 
to assume a pleasing and rather a cheerful appearance. Thus the 
Puritan colony of Plymouth was established. 



6. The harvest of 1622 ? Governor Bradford ? Squanto ? 7. Character of Squanto f 

8. How did they hold their property till 1623? What was the effect of this system? 

9. What effect did distribution have ? 10. What of cattle ? State of the colony in 1624? 



68 



HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 



CHAPTEE XXYIIL 

Progress of the Virginia Colony. — Opechancanough'' s Plot 
and the Massacre of 1622. — The Massacre of V^4A. 

1. We must now return to the colony of Virginia, of which Sir 

Thomas AVyatt 
had, in 1621, he- 
come the gov- 
ernor. He pursued 
the same general 
course in regard 
to the savages 
which his prede- 
cessors had done 
— a course by no 
means fortunate- 
Still, the country 
was beginning to 
be somewhat 
prosperous.There 
were already 

some eighty set- 
tlements, including a population of about three thousand persons. 

2. After the marriage of Rolfe and Pocahontas, the Indians had 
lived at peace with the English for some time. But Powhatan, already 
a very old man, had survived his daughter but one year, and 0-pe- 
chan'-can-ough, his brother, who indulged a mortal hatred of the English, 
had, in 1618, succeeded him. A plan was therefore laid, in 1622, to 
destroy them. 

3. This plan required a good deal of contrivance on the part of tlie 
Indians, for the settlers were scattered along both sides of the James 
River, for nearly one hundred and fifty miles, and the Indians were 
also much scattered. It is thouglit tliat, in the more thickly-settled 
parts of the country, the Indian population did not average more than 
one to a square mile. 

4. But Opechancanougli took time enougli for his plot, and perse- 
vered till he liad' brought all his people to unite with him in executing 




II L MASSACRE. 



Chap. XXVIII.— 1. "What of Sir Thomas Wyatt? State of the Virginia settlement in 
1621? 2. What of Powhatan and Opi'clianc.-inough? What plot was laid ? 3. Situation 
of the settlers ? Of tholndians? Their pupulalion ? 4. Proceedings of Opechancanough? 
Secrecy of the Indians? 



MASSACRES IN THE VIRGINIA COLONY. 69 

it. Though years may have elapsed from the time the plot began, the 
most entire secrecy was maintained among them to the very night be- 
fore they struck the blow, 

5. Indeed, on the very morning of the day appointed for the execu- 
tion of the bloody deed some of the Indians were " in the houses and 
at the tables of those whose death they were plotting." " Sooner," 
said they, "shall the sky fall than peace be violated on our part." But 
their deceit in war was not so well understood two hundred years ago 
as now. 

6. The night before the massacre took place, however, the plot was 
revealed by a converted Indian to a part of the English, so that the 
people of Jamestown, and a few of the adjacent settlements, were on 
their guard, and a large part of them were thereby saved. 

7. The attack was made precisely at noon, April 1st, and was made 
upon all, without regard to age, character, or sex. The feeble and 
sickly no less than the healthy ; the child at the breast as well as its 
mother; the devoted missionary as well as the fraudulent dealer in 
trinkets and furs — were victims alike. 

8. It is not a little singular that the savages should have selected 
such an hour of the day, in preference to the darkness of the night, 
for their work of butchery, and still, that the blow should have been 
struck so suddenly. So unexpected was the attack, that many, it 
is said, fell beneath the tomahawk, unconscious of the cause of their 
death. 

9. Thus, in one short but awful hour, three hundred and forty-seven 
persons, in a population of three or four thousand, were butchered, 
and a group of eighty settlements reduced to eight. The rest were so 
frightened that they dared not pursue their usual avocations. Even 
the public works, in most places, were abandoned. And to add to the 
general distress, famine and sickness followed the massacre, as well as 
a general war with the Indians. 

10. The savages, however, were but poorly provided with fire-arms, 
and a dozen, or even half a dozen white men, well armed, were able 
to cope with a hundred of them. When Captain Smith- was captured, 
as we have related, he was defending himself, single-handed, till he 
stuck fast in the mire, against from one to two hundred Indians. 

11. Peace, it is true, was finally made ; but it was only a peace of 



5. What of the savages on the day appointed for the massacre ? P What took place 
the night before the massacre? 7. What of tlie attack? Who w; e the victims? 8. 
What was singular ? What of the suddenness of the attack ? 9. Hew many persons were 
killed? How were the settlements reduced? Fears of the set icrs? 10. Comparative 
power of the whites and Indians? What of Smith, when cap', red? 11. State of feci- 
ing among the savages ? 



70 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

compulsion, so far as the Indians were concerned. Thej gave up open 
war, because the colonists came over too fast, and were too strong for 
them. But they still meditated revenge, as is obvious from the fact 
that only twenty-two years elapsed before they attempted another 
massacre. 

12. The 28th of April, 1644, was the time appointed for this second 
outrage, in which not only the settlers were aimed at, but their cattle 
and other property. The attack was sudden and unexpected, like the 
former. Providentially the savages took fright, from some unknown 
cause, and fled in the midst of their cruelties ; not, however, till they 
had slain three hundred persons, and destroyed much property. 

13. This second massacre, as well as the first, was succeeded by sick- 
ness and suifering, and both of them by emigration of some of the 
colonists to New England, and the return of others to the mother 
country. N'ot long after, the aged chief, Opechancanough, died of a 
wound inflicted by a soldier, after he had fairly and honorably given 
himself up as a prisoner. 



CHAPTER XXIX. 

Settlement at Weymouth. — Captain Standish chastises the 
Indians. — Other Settlements. — Incorporation of the 
Colony of Massachusetts Bay. 

1. AVe must again return to the history of ISTew England. A settle- 
ment was begun at Wey'-mouth, Massachusetts, in 1622, by Thomas 
Weston, a merchant of London, and fifty or sixty more. The next 
year a plot was laid by the Indians to destroy it, which would no doubt 
have succeeded had not Massasoit, tlie friendly chief, who supposed 
himself to be about to die, revealed it. 

2. As soon as the plot was known, it was decided to defeat it, if pos- 
sible, it being feared that if the conspirators were successful, they 
would carry their work of butchery into the rest of the settlements. 
Captain Stan'-dish, with eight men, was therefore sent out to destroy 
the leaders in the conspiracy, and put the rest in fear. 

3. This w- 3 a singular expedition, and one which to us, at the pres- 



12. What of the .3Cond massacre? 18. Wliat followed the massacres in Virginia? 
The death of Opechan inough ? 

Chap. XXTX— 1. W at of Weymouth, in New Entrland ? 2,3. What did ("aptnin 
Standish and eight soldie.s do? 



NEW ENGLAiND COLON.IES. 71 

ent day, seems almost incredible. AVhat could nine men do in the way 
of chastising a whole tribe of Indians? Yet, Captain Standish and 
liis men ventured boldly among them, slew the conspirators and 
several others who opposed them, and drove the rest into the swamps, 
where many, it is said, perished from disease. 

4. A settlement was begun at Brain'-tree, in 1625, on a hill not far 
from the seat of the late President Adams, and was called, in honor of 
Mr. Wol'-las-ton, the principal settler. Mount Wollaston. But the 
colonists consisted of fifty servants, and they did not thrive. The follow- 
ing year a part of them were taken to Virginia. A settlement was 
begun, in 1624, at or near Gloucester, on Cape Ann. 

5. The same individuals who settled Gloucester proceeded soon after 
to settle Salem, Charlestown, Dorchester, Watertown, Roxbury, and 
Boston. Among the number were several ministers of the gospel, and 
a Mr. John Endicot, afterward Governor Endicot. 

6. Salem, called by the Indians Na-um-ke'-ag, was begun in 1628, 
by Mr. Endicot and about one hundred emigrants. They were rein- 
forced the next year by three or four hundred other emigrants, w^ho 
brought with them one hundred and forty head of cattle, and a few 
horses, sheep, and goats. Two hundred of the Salem settlers pro- 
ceeded, soon afterward, to Charlestown, and others to Dorchester and 
elsewhere. 

7. These various settlements were incorporated, in 1629, under the 
name of "The Colony of Massachusetts Bay," and extended as far 
north as the present boundary of New Hampshire. A form of gov- 
ernment was projected by their friends in England, and Mathew 
Cradock appointed governor; but he was succeeded, soon after, by 
John Endicot. 

8. A circumstance took place in 1628, which deserves to be recorded 
and remembered. One Morton, a man greedy of gain, sold guns, pow- 
der, and shot to the Indians, and taught them how to use them. He 
was rebuked by Governor Endicot and others, but without effect. 
At last he was seized and sent to England, but not till he had done a 
work of mischief for which a long life could not atone. 

4. "What of a settlement at Braintree ? 5. What other towns were now settled? 6. 
Salem f 7. "What of the Colony of Massachusetts Bay? 8. What of one Morton ? 



72 



HISTORY OP THE UNITED STATES, 



CHAPTER XXX. 

Settlement of New Hampshire. — Other Events ui this State. 

1. The first permanent settlement in New Hampshire was made in 

the year 1623, on 
the Pis-ca-ta'-qua 
Eiver, not far from 
the place where 
Portsmouth now 
stands. The first 
house huilt was 
called Mason Hall, 
in honor of John 
Mason, who, with 
Ferdinando Gor- 
ges, set on foot the 
enterprise, and af- 
terward procured a 
patent of the ter- 
ritory. It was soon 
after granted to Ma- 
son alone, and then first received the name of New Hampshire. 

2.*The place where they established themselves was called Little 
Harbor. It has often been mistaken for Portsmouth ; but this town 
was not settled till eight years afterward, and was two miles further 
up the river, at a place called Strawberry Bank, Some parts of the 
wall and chimney of Mason Hall remained standing about half a cen- 
tury ago. 

3. Other places in New Hampshire were settled the same year, in- 
cluding Co-che'-co, afterward called Dover, and now noted for its ex- 
tensive manufactures. But the progress of the colony was slow. It 
was not separated from Massachusetts till 1680, and as late as 1742 
only contained six thousand persons liable to taxation. It suffered 
severely from the Indian wars. 

4. The first legislative assembly was convened in New Hampshire, 
in 1680, and John Mason was the first governor. A constitution was 




FIRST SETTLEMENT IN NEW HAMPSHIRE. 



CnAP. XXX.— 1. When and where was the first permanent settlement made in New 
Hampshire? What of the first house? What of John Mason? 2. Portsmouth? 
Remains of Mason Ilall? 3. Other settlements in New Hampshire? Progress of the 
aettlement? Separation from Massachusetts? Population in 1742? Indian wars? 4. 
First legislation in New Hampshire? Constitution? Earthquake? 



NKv7 ENGLAND COLONIES 



73 



formed for the state in 1683, and went into opei-ation the next year. 
This year is remarkable for an earthquake, which shook even the 
granite mountains of New Hampshire itself. It was felt as far south as 
Pennsylvania. 

5. There was an insurrection here in 1786, excited and led on by the 
insurrection in Massachusetts of the same period. On the twentieth 
of September, a body of two hundred men surrounded the court-house 
at Exeter, in which the general asseml)ly were sitting, and held them 
prisoners for several hours. Other acts of violence were also com- 
mitted. There was, for a time, every appearance of a civil war. The 
insurrection was only quieted by calling out the militia. 

6. New Hampshire has been in general a peaceable and quiet state ; 
it is distinguished for its excellent pastures, towering hills, and fine 
cattle. The White Mountains lift their lofty peaks in this state, and 
they may be seen at sea at a vast distance. They are the highest 
mountains in New England. 



CHAPTER XXXI. 

Government of the Colonies. — > Union of the Colonies of 
Plymouth and Massachicsetts Bay. 

1. The agreement of the settlers at Plymouth, just before they landed,^ 

has been mention- 
ed, as well as the 
names of some of 
their early gover- 
nors. For four 
years, the gover- 
nor of the colony 
had no other coun- 
sel or assistance 
in his oflice than 
what was afford- 
ed by one individ- 
ual. In 1624, the 
number of assist- 
ants was increas- 
ed to five. 




THE LONDON BOARD OF OFFICERS. 



5. Insurrection ? 6. Characteristics of New Hampshire ? The White Mountains ■? 
Chap. XXXI.— 1. What assistance or counsel had the governor of the Plymouth cc^lony 
the first four years? How was the number increased in 1G24? 

7 



74: HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

2. The lands jiad ah first belonged to the Plymouth Company, but, 
in 1627, the colony purchased them for eig-hteen hundred pounds, and 
received a patent for the same, with ample powers of government. 
Seven assistants, with the governor, constituted the government. This 
system was continued till 1639, when deputies, or representatives of the 
people, began for the first time to have a voice in the government. 

3. The main object of the first settlers of the colony of Massachusetts 
Bay, like that of the colonists at Plymouth, was to escape persecution, 
to which they were exposed in England, and to enjoy the high privilege 
of worshipping God according to the dictates of their own consciences. 
The settlers of both colonies were, for the most part, Puritans. 

4. At first the afiairs of government for the colony of Massachusetts 
Bay had been, to all intents and purposes, transacted by a board of offi- 
cers in London. But in August, 1629, the Company very wisely con- 
cluded to transfer the government from London to Massachusetts ; and 
for this purpose proceeded to the choice of a new board of officers. 

5. In virtue of this arrangement, John Winthrop was chosen gov- 
ernor, and Thomas Dudley dei)uty governor. They came over in June, 
1630, with a fleet of eleven ships, and more than eight hundred emi- 
grants, at an expense of one hundred thousand dollars. Seven hundred 
more emigrants are said to have come over the same year. 

6. Governor "Winthrop and his associates brought with them a char- 
ter for the colony, which, among other things, empowered them to 
elect their own officers. They held their charter about sixty years, or 
till the union of the colonies of Massachusetts and Plymouth — an event 
which took place in the year 1691. 

7. Under the charter which has just been mentioned, the legislature 
of the colony consisted of a governor, deputy governor, and eighteen 
assistants, to be elected annually by the freemen, and to constitute, as 
it were, an upper house or senate ; and of the general body of the 
freemen themselves. They met four times a year, and oftener if found 
necessary. 

8. The first legislative assembly, or General Court, as it was called, 
met at Boston, in October, 1630. Upward of one hundred persons 
were made freemen. At the Generfil Court, in May, 1631, the number 
of freemen had increased to about one hundred and fifty. 



2. What of the lands? The g:overnment of the colony from 1627? 3. Object of the 
settlers of Plymouth and Massachusetts Bay ? What were they, mostly ? 4. What of the 
government of Massachusetts Bay before 1629 ? What change then took place ? 5. What 
of John Winthrop? What of emigrnnts in 1630 ? 6. What of a charter? When were 
the colonies of Massachusetts Bay and Plymouth united? 7. What was the government 
of Massachusetts Bay under the charter? 8. When and where did the first general court 
meet ? Number of freemen in 1681 ? 



CUSTOMS IN NEW ENGLAND. 75 

9. The population did not increase at this period so rapidly as it had 
done a short time before. Only three hundred and forty persons came 
over in the space of two years. Emigrants were probably deterred 
by sickness ; for during the single winter of 1629 more than two 
hundred of the Massachusetts settlers died. Such was the terror in- 
spired by sickness and other causes, that about one hundred returned 
to England. 

10. Nor was this all. The dwellings, and perhaps the clothing, of 
the settlers were insufficient for the climate. The winter of 1631 was 
one of unusual severity, even for New England, and some were actually 
frozen to death. Famine followed on disease. Not a few were com- 
pelled to live on shell-fish, groundnuts, and acorns. The governor 
himself, at one time, had " his last corn in the oven." 

11. A day of fasting and prayer for the colony was appointed for 
February 6, 1632; but on the 5th a ship arrived from England, well 
laden with provisions. The day of fasting was changed to a day of 
thanksgiving — the first of the kind ever kept in the present territory 
of the United States. 

12. It is worthy of notice, as showing the rigid character of the 
people of New England, that the custom of drinking healths at ordi- 
nary meals, which prevailed at this time in England, and had found its 
way to America, was early abolished in the colonies ; Governor Win- 
throp setting the example of self-denial at his own table, and urging 
it among his people. 

13. The first churches in Boston and Oharlestown were founded in 
the summer of 1630, after a solemn fast. At the close of another fast, 
in August of the same year, a minister was installed. For two or three 
of the first years of the colony none but members of the church were 
allowed to vote in the General Court or Assembly. 



9 What of the increase of the colony? Sickness in 1629? Return of settlers to Eng- 
land? 10. What of the winter of 1631? 11. Fasting? Arrival of a ship? The drst 
Thanksgiving? 12 Drinkinsr healths? 13. First churches ? Who were the voters during 
the first j^ears of the settlement? 



76 



HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 



CHAPTER XXXII. 

History of Maryland.— Lord Baltimore's Visit to Amer- 
ica. — Leonard Calvert's Arrival.— Settlement of Mary- 
land. — Clayhorne's Llehellion. 

\. The settlement of Maryland had its origin iu the exertions of Sir 

George Calvert, a 
Catholic, afterward 
called Lord Balti- 
more. He had been 
a secretary of state 
under King James 
]., and was made a 
lord on account of 
his services to the 
crown — one of 
which services, it 
is said, consisted in 
bringing about a 
marriage between 
the king's son and 
a Spanish princess. 

2. Lord Baltimore visited America in 1632, and having explored a 
tract of country lying on the Chesapeake Bay, belonging to wiiat was 
then called South Virginia, he returned to England to procure a patent 
of it from the king. Jk-fore the patent was made out, he died, and it 
was given to his son Ce'-cil. 

3. The province was named Maryland, by King Cliarles I., in the 
patent, in honor of his queen, Henrietta Maria, daughter of the king 
of France. A part of the province appears to have been included in 
the grant made some time afterward to William Penn, and to have 
given rise to much contention between the successors of Penn and 
Baltimore. 

4. In March, 1634, Leon'-ard Calvert, the brother of Ce'-cil, witlt 
two hundred emigrants, most of them Roman Catholic gentlemen, witli 
their servants, arrived at the mouth of the Potomac River, and leaving 




LORD BALrivIOUL, 



Chap. XXXII.-l. What ..f Lord naltimoro ? 2. What of his visit to America? His 
death? 3. Name of Marylac.l? W'hat occasioned much contention? 4. What took 
place in 1684? 



HISTORY OP MARYLAND. 77 

the vessel, ascended in a pinnace as far as Piscataqua, an Indian vil- 
lage, nearly opposite Mount Vernon. 

5. The sachem of Piscataqua gave Calvert full liberty to settle there 
if he chose ; but, not deeming it on the whole safe, he began a settle- 
ment lower down, on a branch of the Potomac, at the Indian town of 
Yo-a-co-mo'-co. The settlement was called St. Mary's. 

6. To gain the good-will of the Indians, Calvert made them presents 
of clothes, axes, hoes, and knives. Their friendship was easily secured ; 
and their women, in return for the kindnesses of the English, taught 
them how to make corn-bread. This, perhaps, was the first knowledge 
which the settlers had of " Aoe-c/xy^^," or '''■ johnny -calcey 

7. The colony of Maryland met with few of the troubles which had 
been experienced by its sister colonies. The settlers arrived in time to 
cultivate the soil for that year, and the seasons for several of the suc- 
ceeding years were all favorable. They had the Virginians, moreover, 
for near neighbors, who furnished them with cattle and many other 
necessaries, and also protected them from the Indians. In addition to 
all this, they enjoyed good health. 

8. In February, 1635, in less than one year from the date of the set- 
tlement, the freemen of tlie colony assembled to make the necessary 
laws. The charter which had been granted them was exceedingly 
liberal. They were allowed the fuU power of legislation, without the 
reserved privilege, on the part of the crown, to revoke or alter their 
acts. The government underwent some changes in 1639 ; and, in 
1650, they had an upper and lower house in the legislature, like tlieir 
neighbors. 

9. Ten or twelve years of peace having passed away, a rebellion 
broke out in Maryland, headed by one Clay' -borne. Having formed a 
little colony before the arrival of Calvert, he refused to submit to his 
authority. Convicted, at length, of murder and other crimes, he fled 
from the province, but returned with a large mob, and broke up the 
government. Order, however, was in a little time restored, and things 
again went on prosperously. 



5. What of the sachem of Piscataqua ? What of the settlements ? 6. What of Calvert 
and the Indians ? Hoe-cake? 7. In what respects did the Maryland settlers have aa 
advantage over the other colonists? 8 What of the government of the colony? 
9. What ofClayborne? 



78 



HISTORY OF THE UiMTEi) STATES, 



CIlArTER XXXill. 

Various Settlements hi ihnnecticut. — Opposition of the 
Dutch. — A Singular Journey across the Wilderness. 

1. We now come to the settlement of Connecticut. As early as 1631. 

an Indian 
s a c h e ni 
came from 
the valley 
ofthe Con- 
necticut ri- 
ver to Bos- 
ton and 
Plymouth, 
and urged 
the gov- 
ernors to 
make set- 
tlements 
there. The 
soil, he 
said, was 
exceeding- 
ly rich ; in addition to which, he offered them a yearly supply of corn, 
and eighty beaver-skins. He was treated with kindness, but no steps 
Avere mnnediately taken to form a settlement. 

2. Some time afterward, Governor Winslow,*of Plymouth, made a 
tour to the valley of the Connecticut, and came back so well pleased 
with the country, that preparations were soon made for establishing a 
trading-house there. But the Dutch of Manluittan, having heard of 
the plan, inmiediately proceeded to erect a fort in that quarter. This 
was in 1G33. 

3. Tlie movements of the Dutch, however, did not intimidate the 
Plymouth people. Having got ready the frame of a house, they sailed 
for the Connecticut River. When they came opposite the Dutch fort 
— the spot wliere Hartford now stands — the Dutch forbade their pro- 
ceeding any further, on penalty of being fired upon. They did not re- 
gard this, but proceeded up the river. 




TEOPLE GOING TO SKTTLfc; IN CONNECTICUT. 



Chap. XXXIII.— 1. What of an Inrlian sachem in 1G81 ? 2. Govornor Winslow ? The 
Butch ? 3. What of the Dutch and Plymouth people ? 



SETTLEMENT OF CONNECTICUT. 79 

4. They lauded on the west side of the stream, where Farmiiigton 
River enters it, and laid the foundation of Windsor. The Dutch, with 
a band of seventy men, attempted to drive them away in 1634, but did 
not succeed. Thus was a colony planted in Connecticut. 

5. Wethersfield and Hartford were settled in 1635, by a company of 
emigrants from Newton and Watertown, near Boston. It consisted of 
n.ien, women, and children, to the number of sixty, with their cattle 
and horses. They left home on the 25th of October, and were a fort- 
night on the road, wading through rivers and swamps, and traversing 
hills and mountains. 

6. But they had begun the journey too late in the season. The win- 
ter came upon them in their new residence before they were prepared 
i'or it, and the snow fell very deep. They had sent their goods and 
provisions by water, but the vessel did not arrive, and was supposed to 
be cast away. Thus a fainine was at once produced among them. 

7. In this dreadful condition, they became quite discouraged, and 
some of them desperate. Fourteen of the number set out to return to 
Boston by the way they came. One was drowned in crossing the 
river, and the rest would have perished on the road, had they not been 
relieved by the Indians. A great many emigrants returned by water. 

8. It is difficult to say which sulfered most, those who went away or 
those who remained. The latter received a little of the promised aid 
from the Indians, but their fare was at times scanty — consisting chiefly 
of acorns and grain. A part of their cattle subsisted by browsing 
on what they could find in the woods and meadows. 

9. The Plymouth Company in England had, in 1631, given to Lords 
Say and Seal, and Lord Brook, a patent of the lands lying about the 
mouth of the Connecticut River. In 1635, a son of Governor Win- 
throp, of Massachusetts, with twenty men, built a fort there, which he 
called Say brook, and became the governor of it. The Dutch tried to 
drive him away, but without effect. 

10. In June, 1636, one hundred emigrants from Dorchester and 
Watertown, accompanied by tAvo ministers of the gospel, Mr. Hooker 
and Mr. Stone, crossed the mountains, swamps, and rivers, to Connect- 
icut. They journeyed on foot, and drove a hundred and sixty head 
of cattle ; subsisting chiefly during the journey on milk. They were 
a fortnight on the road. They settled at Hartford, which they called 
Newtown. 



4. Where did the emigi-ants land ? What did the Dutch of Hartford attempt to do? 
5. What of the settlement of Wethersfield and Hartford? 6. What evils beset the set- 
tlers ? 7. What of the retuj-n of some of them ? 8. Situation of those that remained ? 
9. What bad taken place in 1631? What of a son of Governor Winthrop? 10. What 
happened in 1686? 



80 



HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES, 



11. As they passed along, the woods resounded with their songs and 
hymns and prayers, and with the lowing of their kine. They had no 
guide but a compass, and Him who guarded the host of Israel in their 
travels from Egypt to Canaan. They had no pillows but heaps of 
stones. None saw tbem but here and there a group of wandering 
savages, and the Eye which sees and observes all secrets. 



CHAPTEK XXXIV. 

Roger Williatn^. — He is hanished from Massachusetts^ 
and settles in Rhode Island. — The Rhode Island a'^d 
Providence Plantations. 

1. In February, 1631, a Puritan minister arrived in New England, 

by the name of 
Roger Williams. 
He was as yet 
scarcely thirty 
years of age. He 
was a man of 
some enlighten- 
ed views, but his 
temper was not 
properly disci- 
plined. He was^ 
however, an ar- 
dent friend of re- 
ligious liberty, 
and a foe to every 
form of legal in- 
tolerance. 

2. He was, at first, pastor of a church in Salem. Here, having 
iifvanced the opinion that a commonwealth is bound to protect all 

denominations of Christians, rather more boldly than was acceptable 
to the Massachusetts government, and having also announced some 
strange opinions with an overbearing spirit, he was tried for heresy 
and was sentenced to leave the province. 




ROGER WIILIAMS BANISHED. 



11. Describe the progress of the emigrants through the woods. 

Chap. XXXIV.— 1. What of Roger Williams? 2. Of what church was he at first r> 
pastor? "What opinions did he advance? What was the consequence of this conduct"' 



SKTTLEMEXT OF RHODE ISLAND. SI 

3. lie iirst repaired to See'-konk, now in Rhode Island; but havini^ 
learned, soon after, that the place was within the jurisdiction of the 
Plyinoutli colony, he removed, June, 1636, to the place where Provi- 
dence now stands, and laid the foundation of a colony, of which he was, 
at one and the same time, minister, instructor, and father. 

4. But the labors of Roger Williams were not by any means con- 
lined to his own countrymen. Though his manners had been harsh, he 
liad a good heart. Like Eliot, he did much for the conversion and im- 
provement of the savages. He even took pains, like him, to learn their 
language, that he might the better conciliate, instruct, improve, and 
elevate them ; and, at the same time, preserve his colony from destruc- 
tive and bloody wars. 

5. Providence was within the territory of the ISTarraganset Indians, 
buj;, Mr. Williams very soon obtained a deed of it ; not for himself or 
li is friends, for though it was his own property as much as the clothes 
lie wore, he gave away every foot of it. I^^or did he love power 
more than property, for, instead of making himself the magistrate, the 
colonists had none till the year 1640. 

6. The Providence settlement soon became the asylum of all who 
were persecuted in the other colonies on account of their religious 
opinions, especially the Baptists, to which sect Mr. "Williams adhered. 
In 1639, a Baptist church was formed there; the first in the United 
States. Twelve years later, the General Court of Massachusetts, by 
their severe laws, drove a greater number to Rhode Island than ever 
before. 

7. Rhode Island, properly so called — that is, the beautiful island 
v.'hich goes by this name — was first settled in the spring of 1638, by 
William Coddington and seventeen others. In the following Novem- 
ber, Mr. Coddington was chosen governor. These last were the fol- 
lowers of one Anne Hutchinson, a fanatic in religion, but in many re~ 
spects a wise and virtuous woman. 

8. Until 1640, the citizens of Providence had made their own rules 
and laws in a general convention. They now thought it best to adopt 
a more permanent form of government, and, in 1644, Roger Williams, 
with the aid of Governor Yane, of Massachusetts, procured a charter 
for the two settlements, under the name of the Rhode Island and Provi- 
dence Plantations. 



o. Where did Williams first go? Where did he establish himself? 4. What of Wil- 
liams and the Indians? 5. Did Williams talve a deed of his land? What did he do with 
his land? What of the government of the colony till 1640? 6. Of whom did the Provi- 
dence settlements become the asylum ? The Baptists ? What happened in 1639 ? What 
liappened twelve years later? 7. What occurred in 1638? "W^hat of Anne Hutchinson? 
8. What occui-red in 104r^t? 



82 



HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 



CPIAPTEE XXXY. 

War with the Pequod Indians. — The Battle at Mystic 
River. — Burning of the Indian Fort. — Utter Defeat 
of the Pequods. 

1. CoKNEOTiouT was first organized as a government separate from 

Massachusetts 
and Plymouth, in 
1636. Its inhab- 
itants held their 
first General 
Court or Assembly 
at Hartford, in ^he 
spring of that 
year. The first 
law they passed 
was, that arms 
and ammunition 
should not be sold 
to the Indians. 

2. Enough, how- 
ever, had been 
done, long before, 
by unprincipled men, like Hunt and Morton, to excite that savage 
jealousy which, when once roused, makes little discrimination, but 
vents itself with nearly equal readiness on all who are white, without 
regard to age or sex. The period was at hand when the colonists of 
Connecticut were to feel the full force of savage vengeance. 

3. The Pe'-quods, or Pequots, were a very formidable tribe, having 
at least seven hundred warriors. Their principal settlement was on a 
hill in Groton, near New London, in Connecticut, though they had 
forts elsewhere. They were tlie terror of many other tribes of Indians, 
and they soon became a serious annoyance to the Connecticut and 
Massachusetts settlers. 

4. They had, in the first place, murdered some of the traders from 
Massachusetts, especially one Old'-ham, at Block Island, and Governor 
Endicot had been sent to treat with them, or bring them to submis- 
sion ; but he had accomplished very little, except to provoke them by 
burnina: their wiirwams. 




BURNING OP THE FORT. 



Chap. XXXV. — 1. When was Connecticut first organized as a government separate 
from Massachusetts and Plymouth ? Where was the first General Assembly ? What was 
the first law? 2. What had been done by such men as Hunt and Morton ? 3. What of tho 
Pequods? 4. What had the Pequods done? 



WAR WITH THE PEQUODS. 83 

5. In March, 103T, tliey became so bold as to attack the fort at Say- 
brook, and kill three of the soldiers. In April, they murdered several 
men and women at Wethersfield, carried away two girls into captivity, 
and destroyed twenty cows. The inhabitants could no longer con- 
sider themselves safe, by night or by day, in their houses or in their 
fields. 

6. The General Assembly, which convened at Hartford, May 11, re- 
solved to make war upon them ; and ninety men — about half the col- 
ony who were able to bear arms — with Captain Mason at their head, 
accompanied by seventy friendly Mohegan Indians, and Eev. Mr. Stone 
as their chaplain, were sent out to attack the Pequods in their own 
country. 

7. Sailing down the river, and thence to Karraganset Bay, they 
were joined at the latter place by two hundred Karraganset Indians, 
and, after landing and proceeding toward the Pequod country, by five 
hundred Ni-an'-ticks. The Pequods had two forts, one at Mystic, in 
the present town of Groton, and another further on. They resolved 
to attack the former. 

8. They arrived at Mystic Eiver, near the fort, late in the evening, 
and pitched their camp by two large rocks, now called Porter's rocks. 
About daybreak the next morning, they were ready to advance and 
attack the fort. The first signal of their arrival was the barking of a 
dog, upon which an Indian in the fort cried out, " O- wan'-ux ! Owanux ! " 
which meant Englishmen ! Englishmen ! 

9. The battle soon began, and for a long time was severe. The fate 
of Connecticut, and perhaps of all New England, was to be determined 
by seventy -seven men.* Every soldier, therefore, fought for his own 
life and the lives of his countrymen. With the Indians, too, every 
thing was at stake; and their arrows descended among the English like 
a shower of hail. 

10. At last, seeing his men begin to tire, Captain Mason cried out, 
"We must burn them!" — and, seizing a firebrand from one of the 
wigwams, he applied it to the combustible material of which it was 
composed, and in a few miniites the whole fort was in flames. The 
fire and sword together made terrible havoc ; and soon victory decided 
in favor of the colonists. 

11. But the contest was not yet over. Three hundred Pequods from 

5. What happened in March, 163T? 6. What of the General Assembly? Of whom 
did the force sent against the Pequods consist? 7. By what forces were they joined? 
What forts had the Pequods ? S. What of the approach of the white men to Fort 
Mystic? 9. What of the fight ? 10. What of Captain Mason ? 

* They set out with ninety, but thirteen had fallen off at Saybrook, or elsewhere ; and 
as for the friendly Indian allies, they dared not venture near the fort. 



84 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

the other fort came now to the assistance of their brethren, but these 
too M^ere gallantly repulsed, and the colonists retired leisurely to go on 
board their vessels at the Pequod harbor. When the battle ended, 
their vessels were not yet in sight, but they arrived soon afterward. 

12. The colonists had but two men killed and sixteen wounded in 
the contest; while the Indians lost seventy wigwams, and, as it was 
thought, from five hundred to six hundred men. The blow was de 
cisive. The Indians looked at the smoking ruins, stamped on the 
ground, tore their hair, and rushed on the colonists ; but to no purpose. 

18. The battle was scarcely ended, when a body of two hundred 
troops from Massachusetts and Plymouth arrived. They renewed the 
war, burning wigwams, destroying cornfields, and killing the Indians, 
men, women, and children. The survivors were driven to a swamp, 
where they finally surrendered, except Sas'-sa-cus, their chief, and a 
few of his men, who fled to the Mo'-hawks, by whom Sassacus was 
afterward murdered. 



CHAPTER XXXYI. 

Anecdotes of the Pequod War. — The Indian Chiefs TJn- 
cas and Sassacus, — The Beneficent Conduct of Roger 
Williams. 

1. One of the early laws of ITew England was : — " Some minister is 
to be sent forth to go along with the army, for their instruction and 
encouragement." Moreover, they sometimes began their wars by a 
season of fasting and prayer. We may smile at this strange attempt 
to intermingle religion and bloodshed ; but it exhibits the Puritan 
character. 

2. The whole night before Captain Mason set out from Hartford to 
attack the Pequods was spent by Mr, Stone, at the request of the 
soldiers, in earnest prayer. Again : having arrived at ISTarraganset 
Bay on Saturday, instead of proceeding on their journey the next day, 
they kept it as the Sabbath, with the most scrupulous exactness. 

3. War is terrible at best, but it is always agreeable to find its hor- 
rors in any degree mitigated. While the soldiers of Captain Mason 
were slaughtering the Indians at Fort Mystic by hundreds, and ac- 
tually piling the dead bodies in heaps, they spared the women. Many 

II. What more happened ? ] 2. Loss of the colonists ? Of the Indians ? 13. What of 200 
Massachusetts troops ? What of Sassacus and the rest of the Pequods? 

CiiAP. XXXVI.— 1. How did the Puritans mingle religion with war? 2. What of the 
ni^jht before Captain Mason's departure for the Pequod war? W^hat of the next Sunday? 
8. What of war? What of sparing the women and children ? 



INCIDENTS OP THE PEQUOD WAR. 85 

of the Indiau warriors, observing this, cried out, "1 squaw! I squaw!" 
But it did not save them. 

4. The friendly Indians, under Un'-cas, sachem of the Mohegans 
and Mi-an-ton'-o-moh, sachem of the Narragansets, were terribly afraid 
of the Pequods, and especially of Sassacus, their chief. When Captain 
Mason inquired of Miantonomoh why the Narragansets did not come 
forward and help him, he replied, " Sassacus is in the fort. Sassacus 
is all one God ; nobody can kill him." 

5. The two hundred Pequods — men, women, and children — who sur- 
rendered to the colonists, were either enslaved by the English or in- 
corporated with the Mohegans or the Narragansets. There did not 
remain, according to the words of the historian, " a sannup or a squaw, 
a warrior or a child, of the Pequod name. A nation had disappeared 
in a day!" 

6. Still, this war would have been more dreadful than it was, but 
for the benevolent and pious labors of Roger Williams. When the 
Pequods found they had provoked the colonists to make war upon 
them, they tried to enlist on their side the Mohegans and Narragansets. 
They hoped that by their united exertions they might be able entirely 
lo sweep the colonists from the hunting-ground of their fathers. 

7. There was no white man in New England that dared, at this 
critical time, to expose himself to Indian fury, but Roger Williams. 
Aware of the danger to the colonists, this good man, amid storm and 
wind, and at the most imminent hazard of his life, embarked in a 
canoe, and hastened to the wigwam of the Narraganset sachem, even 
while the Pequod ambassadors were there, still reeking with the blood 
of Oldham and others. 

8. Here, for three days and nights, he ate and drank and slept in 
their midst, in danger of being shot, or having his throat cut, every 
moment. The Narragansets for some time wavered, but he at length 
succeeded in preventing them from entering into a league with the 
Pequods, and thus, probably, saved the colonies from extinction. 



CHAPTEK XXXYII. 

Settlement of New Haven. — Mr. Davenport and his Asso- 
ciates. — Other Settlements in Connecticut. — Earthquakes. 

1. The Indian name of New Haven was Quin'-ni-pi-ack. The peo- 
ple of the Conned icut colony had become acquainted with it during 

4. WhatofSassao ■; and other Indians ? 5. What of the 200 Indians cnptured? What 
of the Pequod nni.m? 6 What rendered the Pequod war less dreadful? 7, 8. What 
didEoger Williar do? 
8 



86 



HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 



W^-^dJ Uji 




FIRST SETTLEMENT AT NEW HAVEN. 



the war with the Pequods. About this time Rev. Mr. Davenport, 

and two merchants 
of London, by the 
name of Eaton and 
Hopkins, and a 
company of emi- 
grants, came over 
to America ; a few 
of whom went to 
Quinnipiack, built 
a hut, and remain- 
ed there during the 
winter preceding 
the settlement. 

2. In the spring 
of 1638, Mr. Dav- 
enport and his 
whole company went there to reside permanently. At two dilFerent 
purchases, they bought of the Indians nearly the wliole of what now 
constitutes the county of New Haven. For the first and smallest por- 
tion, they gave a dozen, each, of coats, hoes, hatchets, spoons, and por- 
ringers, two dozen knives, and four cases of French knives and scis- 
sors; and, for the largest, thirteen coats only. 

8. Some may think that the Indians were defrauded by these purchases ; 
or, at least, that they would be likely to think themselves so after- 
ward. But such persons forget that these articles were worth more then 
than they now are; and, beside that, the land was really Avorth no- 
thing to the Indiims, nor, in their wild state, M'ere they of much value 
to any one. Besides, the Indians retained the right to hunt on the land, 
and, if they pleased, to plant a certain portion. 

4. On the first Sabbath which the colonists observed at New Haven, 
April 28, Mr. Davenport preached to the people under a large spread- 
ing oak. He was an excellent man, and, with his coadjutors, gave a 
character to New Haven that has never been wholly lost. The lay- 
ing of the city into squares, and the beautiful green, or common, are 
memorials of their efforts. 

5. The three towns, Windsor, Hartford, and Wethersfield, early in 
the year 1639, formed themselves into a distinct government, and 



Chap. XXXVII. — 1 What was the Indian name of the country where New Haven now 
stands? When did the people of Connecticut become acquainted with it? What of Mr. 
Davenport and others ? 2. What was done in 1688 ? 3. IIow does it appear that the 
Indians were not cheated by the whites? 4. What of Mr. Davenport? 



THE COLONY OF NEW HAVEN. 87 

adopted a constitution, and John Haynes was elected their first gov- 
ernor. Then- constitution has been mucli admired. It lasted, with 
little alteration, till 1818, or about one hundred and eighty years; and 
was in substance as follows : 

6. The General Court, or legislative assembly, was to be held twice 
a year, viz., in spring and autumn ; but the officers of the government 
— the governor, deputy governor, and five or six assista,nts — with the 
representatives from the several towns, were to be elected on the first 
Monday of April annually. The settlement at Saybrook soon became 
united with that at Hartford, 

7. Until the year 1665, New Haven was a colony by itself, separate 
from Hartford, under the name of the Colony of New Haven. A con- 
stitution was formed and adopted by the colony essentially like that 
of Connecticut, in the autumn of the same year, 1639; and Theophilus 
Eaton was chosen the first governor, and re-elected every year till his 
death, which happened about twenty years afterward. 

8. The first inhabitants of New Haven, almost without exception, 
were men of character and piety. They paid great attention both to 
education and religion. At first they held their lands in com- 
mon, as at Jamestown and Plymouth. Not a few of their first gov- 
ernors, moreover, as well as several other officers, refused to receive 
any salary or special compensation for their public services. 

9. The Dutch, who still claimed the country, seemed inclined, from 
time to time, to molest the Connecticut colony, but no serious conflict 
ever took place between them. Their greatest trouble was with the 
Indians. With this exception, and a continual series of disasters at 
sea, their first years were quite prosperous. 

10. The first great earthquake in New England, after its settlement, 
took place in June, 1638. The earth shook with such violence that in 
some places people could not stand without difficulty, and the furniture 
in the houses was thrown down. Similar shocks were felt in 1663, 
1727, 1761, and 1783. 



5. What of three towns? Who was the first governor of the Connecticut colony ? 
What of the constitntion adopted there? 6. "What were the general provisions of t his 
constitution? 7. What of the New Haven colony? 8. First settlers of New Haven? 
Wliat of property? The governors ? 9. The Dutch? 10. Earthqiuikes ? 



88 



HI S 10 II Y OF THE UNITED STATES. 



CHAPTEK XXXVIII. 

Union of the New England Colonies. 

1, The conduct of the New England settlers did not fail to' keep up 

the spirit of per- 
secution in Eng- 
land on the part 
of those whose 
severe measures 
had driven them 
there. It was 
seen that the 
forms of the Eng- 
lish church dis- 
cipline were dis- 
regarded by the 
Puritans, and 
marriages were 
celebrated even 
by the civil mag- 

istrates. In spite 
of all this, however, good and loyal subjects of the king were con- 
tinually emigrating thither. 

2. What could be done ? In the first place, ships freighted with pas- 
sengers and bound for New England were forbidden to sail. In the 
next place, the Archbishop of Canterbury, and others, obtained power 
to legislate for the colonies ; to revoke their charters if it should be 
thought necessary ; to regulate and govern their church, and to inflict 
punishment for refractory conduct. 

3. Such power, lodged in the hands of an Episcopal bishop three 
thousand miles distant, greatly alarmed the colonies. In January, 
1635, the ministers assembled at Boston, to consult with the civil offi- 
cers, and see what should be done. They were unanimous in the opin- 
ion that they ought not to submit to a general governor from abroad, 
should one be appointed, which they had great reason to expect. 

4, Nor was this all. Poor as the colonies were, they raised six 
hundred pounds sterling among them, and applied it immediately to 
the erection of fortifications. But this only so much the more oftended 




DKLLGATES SIGMNU THIS AUliCLKS OF CONFEDERATION. 



Chap. XXXVIII.— 1. Conduct of the 
this? 2. What was done in England ? S 
steps did the colonies take ? 



Puritans in New England ? Consequences o)' 
What wus done at Boston in 1635? 4. Whac 



PERSECUTION IN ENGLAND. 



89 




MAP OF NEW ENGLAND. 

their enemies in England, and increased their disposition to restrain 
their liberties. 

5. "Whole squadrons, ready to sail for America with passengers, were 
stopped. It is even said that Crom'-well and Hamp'-den, who after- 
ward became so conspicuous in the measures which led to the death 
of the king, Charles I., were on board of one of the vessels, and would 



Questions on the Map. — Direction of the following places from Boston: Cape Cod? 
New Haven? Augusta? Montpelier ? Hartford? Long Island? New York ? Prov- 
idence? Quebec? In what direction do the following rivers run: the Connecticut? 
the Kennebec? the Penobscot? the Hudson? etc. 

8* 



90 HISTORY OF THE UNITED .STATES. 

liave sailed for America bad not the king himself prevented it. Little 
did he know what he was doing. 

6. It was impossible, however, to check the tide of emigration, ex- 
cept for a short time. Persecution for religious opinions had awakened 
a spirit of emigration in Europe which had not been know a before. 
One hundred and ninety-eight ships had already crossed the Atlantic 
to New England, carrying with them twenty tliousand passengers ; and 
the plantations there had cost nearly a million of dollars. 

7. It was just at this period of the colonial hist'ory-, when they were 
in danger not only from foes at home but from enemies of their liberty 
abroad, that a union of the colonies, for mutual preservation and de- 
fence, began to be discussed. Nor did their victory over the Pequods, 
nor the temporary suspension of Dutch hostilities, lull them into se- 
curity. Tlie measure was not only talked of, but at last executed. 

8. The articles of confederation were signed May 29, 1643, The 
union which was formed took the name of " The United Colonies of 
New England." It embraced Massachusetts, Plymouth, Connecticut 
and New Haven, and should have included Ehode Island and Provi- 
dence plantations. This colony petitioned for admittance, but was re- 
fused, because it would not be n)erged in the colony of Plymouth. 

9. This union continued forty years or more, and was of great service 
while it lasted. If it did not prevent that foreign interference which 
was threatened, it defended the colonies at least from the Indians and 
Dutch, and other enemies at home, both by leading them to feel more 
strongly the ties of sympathy and brotherhood, and by enabling them 
to make treaties on a more certain and permanent basis. 



5. What of Cromwell and Hampden? 6 Emigration? Persecution? How many ships 
and passengers had come to America? How much had the plantations cost? 7 What »t' 
ti union of the colonies ? 8. Wliat of the articles of confederation? Why w;is Rhode 
Island excluded ? 9 What of this union ? 



MANNERS AND CUSTOMS OF THE INDIANS, 



91 



CHAPTER XXXIX. 



General Remarhs on the Indians. — The Tribes of New 
England. — Their Manners and Customs. 

1. We have already stated that the Indians of America, though 

divided into many 
^* '^ 1^, tribes and na- 

JlL 'ill ? tions, speaking dif- 

ferent languages, 
and having some 
ditference of man- 
ners and customs, 
were all of one 
race. It is neces- 
sary to remark, 
however, that the 
people called Es- 
quimaux [es'-hi- 
mo\ living around 
the Arctic regions, 
were of a distinct 
race, being of the 

same family as the Lap'-land-ers and Sa-moi'-ed(;s of Northern Europe 

and Asia. 

2. With those people, however, the early settlers of the United States 
had no connection. With the numerous tribes which dwelt in tl/e 
vast country from the Canadas to the Gulf of Mexico, on the contrary, 
they were in almost constant contact. The Whites, in fact, occupied 
the lands which these Indians had held as their patrimony, and the 
savages were not slow to perceive that their tribes rapidly wasted 
away before the progress of these strangers. 

3. A natural jealousy, therefore, took possession of their minds, 
which was often inflamed by acts of aggression on the part of the 
Europeans. Thus wars ensued, which, in point of fact, constitute a 
large part of the history of the colonies. In order to understand the 
narratives belonging to this period, it is necessary to take a somewhat 
closer view of the manners and customs of those people. 




INDIAN SORCEUER AND SICK MAN. 



CuAP. XXXIX.— 1. What of the Indians of America? 
the Imlians from the Canadas to the Gulf of Mexico? 3 



The Esquimaux! 
Jealousy of the 



2. What of 
Indians? 



92 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

4. The tribes in New England were, principally, the Pe-nob'-scotsin 
Maine ; the Paw-tuck'-ets between Maine and Salein ; the Massachusetts 
around the Massachusetts Bay; the Po-ka-no'-kets in south-eastern 
Massachusetts; the Narragansets about Rhode Island; and the Pe'- 
quods in the southern or south-eastern part of Connecticut. 

5. There were indeed other tribes and divisions of tribes, such as 
theMo-he'-gans, theNipmucks, the Wam-pa-no'-ags, &c. ; but they were 
not numerous, and were generally tributary to the larger tribes. Nor 
were the larger tribes so numerous as some have hastily supposed. 
Judicious authors on the subject have estimated the whole number at 
only one hundred and fifty or two hundred thousand for the eastern, 
middle, and southern states. 

6. The Indians had no houses, but lived cliietiy in rude huts, or, as 
they were called, wigtoams. These were built of sticks, leaves, bark, 
and sometimes of skins, in the shape of tents. They were usually ar- 
ranged in small clusters, or villages ; one wigwam often serving for 
several families. Like the wandering Tartars, they often removed 
their villages. A village contained, usually, from fifty to two hundred 
inhabitants. 

7. They knew little of agriculture, though in some places they raised 
corn and beans, and a few peas, melons, &c. The employments of the 
men were chiefly hunting, fishing, and war. Of arts and manufactures 
they barely knew enough to make their wigwams, weapons of war, 
hunting and fishing, articles of dress and ornaments, wampum, and a 
few domestic utensils and agricultural implements. 

8. Their food was simple, coarse, plainly cooked, and, from tlieir 
natural indolence, sometimes scanty. At times they subsisted chiefly on 
flesh — raw, roasted, or boiled, accordingto convenience. At other times., 
when not too indolent to procure it, they subsisted on parched corn, 
hominy, or a mixture of corn and beans, which they called succotash. 
The females usually prepared tlie food and cultivated the vegetables. 

9. Their dress, except in winter, consisted chiefly of a slight cover- 
ing about the waist, with ornaments for the face, wrists, or ankles. 
In winter they dressed in untanned skins and in furs. They were little 
aflfected by external beauty, even personal beauty, notwithstanding 
their fondness for ornament. In war, and on occasions of ceremony, tliey 
painted their faces with various bright colors, giving them a hideous 
appearance. For amusements, they danced around a fire, or sang songs, 
or recited stories of their victories. Though in general the Indians had a 
moody and melancholy look, they sometimes indulged in hearty mirth. 

4. What of the tribes of Indians in New England? 5. Other tribes? 6. Indian dwellings ? 
Villages? 7. Agriculture ? Employments of the men? Arts and manufactures ? 8. Food? 
The women ? 9. Dress ? Amusements ? 



MANiNERS AND CUSTOMS OF THE INDIANS. 93 

10. Their hatchets, knives, and other implements, were chiefly sliells 
or sharp stones ; more frequently the latter. The bow and arrow and 
tomahawk, as we have already stated, were their chief weapons of war. 
They pounded their corn in large stones, scooped or hollowed out. 
The ground served them instead of chairs, tables, and beds. Their 
thread for nets, etc., was made of the tendons of animals, and their 
fish-hooks of bones. For' money, they used wampum^ or beads made 
of the shells of clams strung together in chains, or fastened to belts. 

11. The Indians had no books, or schools, or churches. They had, 
it is true, some ideas of good and evil spirits; their principal deity 
was called Manitou. They appear to have had a belief in a future 
existence beyond the grave ; but their notions on this subject were very 
crude and confused ; and their religion and religious worship, when 
they had any, exerted but little influence on their general conduct. 

12. Polygamy was allowed among them ; and though they could 
hardly be said to be distinguished for licentiousness, there was not 
among them that tender and respectful regard for the female sex 
which is not only a principal element of human happiness, but one of 
the strongest bonds of society. Their government and customs of war 
Avill be seen in the progress of our history. 

13. Diseases among the savages of America were fewer in number 
than in civilized society ; but they were sometimes very fatal, as in the 
case of the smallpox. Their medical treatment was simple, consisting, 
for the most part, of a little herb tea, and warm or cold bathing ; some- 
times, however, they resorted to powwows or sorcerers, who pretended 
to charm away diseases. 

14. When an Indian died, the survivors dug a hole in the ground, 
and having wrapped the corpse in skins and mats, laid it therein. 
Whatever was deemed most useful to the individual while living, as 
his implements of war or hunting, were buried with him ; probably in 
the vague belief that they might be useful to him in a future state. 
Some corpses were buried sitting, with their faces to the east. 

10. utensils? Weapons of war? IIow did they pound their corn? What served 
thenn for chairs, tables, etc. ? Nets? Hooks? Money? 11. Books? Schools? Churches? 
Religious notions? 12. Polygamy? Eespect for the female sc?:? 13. Diseases? iSIedical 
treatment? rowwows ? 14. Burial ceremonies? 



94: 



HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 




INDIAN VILLAGE. 



CHAPTEK XL. 

The Eigld Families of Indians — Algonquins, Huron 
Iroquois^ Dahhotahs, Catawhas^ Cherohees^ Uchees^ 
Choctaws^ and NatcKes. — Their Character^ Manners^ 
Customs^ etc. 

1. Such were the manners and cnstoms of the Few England Indians; 
they were, however, only a small part of those which dwelt within the 
present limits of the United States. 

2. These comprised nnmerons small bands, though historians class 
them in eight great ftimilies. First, there was the Al-gon'-qutn 
Family, occupying nearly the whole country from the Oanadas to the 
Oarolinas, and embracing nearly all the Indians with whom the early 
settlers came in contact, as well those of New England as the Mid- 
dle States and Virginia. 

3. The second family was that of the Hu'-eon Ik'-o-quois, their 

Chap. XL. — 1, 2. What of tlie bands or tribes among the Indians in the territory of the 
United States at the time of its settlement? Into how many great families are they di- 
vided by historians? What of the Algonquin family? 



96 



HISTOHV Oi'' TiiK UNITED STATES. 



seat being around Lake Erie and Lake Huron. Tiie third family was 
that of the Dah-ko'-tahs, or Sioux [sioo], living mostly west of the 
Mississippi, where they still form a powerful tribe. 

4. The fourth family was 
that of the Ca-taw'-bas, liv- 
ing in the interior of Caro- 
lina. To the west of these 
lived the Chee-o-kees', still 
a powerful tribe in the West, 
where they have become par- 
tially civilized. The U-chees', 
a small family whose history 
is little known, dwelt in the 
northern, part of Georgia. 

5. The Choc'-taws, called 
the Mobilian Family^ occu- 
pied the southern parts of 
the present United States, 
from the Mississippi to the 
Atlantic. It included many 
nations, and among them 
the Greeks, whose history 
has largely figured in the an- 
nals of our country. 

6. On the east bank of the 
Mississippi, near the site of 
the present city of ITatchez, 

lived the family of that name. They were a small tribe, but appear 
to have had some connection with the Mexicans, which had imparted 
to them some ideas of civilization not shown by the other natives we 
have mentioned. 

T. Each of tliese great families had its own language, yet they all 
bore a general resemblance to each otlier. As we have stated, the 
minor tribes had also their peculiar dialects, yet all those belonging to 
one family could communicate with each other. Thus the several 
tribes of New England could all communicate with each other, and also 
with the other branches of the Algonquin ftimily, as the Del' -a-wares^ 
the Mi'-a-mees^ Ot'-ta-was^ &c., living further to the west. 

8. The manners and customs of these tribes were nearly the same 
as those we have described as belonging to the New England Indians. 
With them all, war and the chase, with fishing, were the chief occupa- 




INDIAN CHIEF. 



3. The Huron Iroquois ? The Dahkotahs ? 4. 
tjchees? 5. The Choctaws? 6. Tho Watches? 



The Catawbas? ThoClirn 
7. Language of tlic Iiiiliiu! 



MANNERS AND CUSTOMS OF THE INDIANS. 9T 




INDIAN YOUTHS SHOOTING AT A TARGET. 

tlons of the men : the women tilled the land and bore all burdens dur- 
ing journeys. Among some tribes they dressed skins for clothing and 
hut covers, and wove mats for beds from the bark of trees. 

9. The love of display in dress was a characteristic of the meu, even 
the warriors, who not only tattooed their faces, arms, necks, and 
shoulders, but decorated themselves with the heads of wild animals, 
the claws and feathers of birds, and the bones of fishes. 

10. Among all the tribes the women were mere slaves, condemned 
to perform all the menial labor, and not only excluded from war and 
hunting, but even from the sports of leaping, dancing, target-shooting, 
ball-playing, and various games of chance, in which the men indulged 
with passionate delight. Tlie highest indulgence of the female sex 
was to witness these sports on the part of their lords and masters. 

11. At the time of the settlement of the Enghsh in this country, by 
far the greater part of the Indians lived east of the Mississippi ; now 
they are nearly all removed west of that river. Many of the tribes 
that flourished in the early days of the colonies, have entirely passed 



8. Manners and customs? 9. Love of display in dress ? 
1 1. Where did the greate • part of the early Indians dwell ? 
9 



10. Condition of the women ? 



9S 



HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 



away: all are reduced to comparative insignificance. Most have ex- 
changed the bow and arrow for the rifle, and wear blankets instead 
of skins. 

12. When first known by the whites they had neither horses, cattle, 
dogs, sheep, nor domestic fowls: now they have horses, and are among 
the swiftest and most dexterous of riders. Nevertheless, they are 
gradually dwindling away, and before many years are past, the race 
will doubtless be entirely blotted out. 

13. Such is a brief outline of the character and condition of the 
savages within tlie boundaries of the United States, at the early period 
of which we are speaking. "We shall have occasion to fill up this 
picture by incidents and narratives, illustrative of their disposition, 
habits, and capacity. 



CHAPTER XLI. 



May- 



Evangelizing the Indians in New England. — The 
hews. — Eliot ^ the Indian Apostle. 

1. We now return to the history of New England. One of the more 

important as well 




EUOT PREACHING 



as more interest- 
ing results of the 
union of the col- 
onies, of which 
we have given 
an account, was 
the civilization 
and improve- 
ment of the In- 
dians, whose 
manners and cus- 
toms, as we have 
seen, were alto- 
gether rude and 
savage. During 
the peace with 



them, between the Pequod war and the war with Philip, it pleased God 
to put it into the hearts of many to do them good. Among these bene- 
factors were several persons of the name of Mayhew, and John Eliot. 



12, "What of horses, cattle, etc 

Chap. XLI.— 1. "What followed the union of the colonies? 



ELIOT, THE INDIAN APOSTLE. 99 

2. One of the Mayhews had a church of one hundred communicants 
at Martha's Vineyard. His son, Experience Mayhew, besides having 
the charge of five or six congregations of Indians, learned their lan- 
guage, and translated portions of the Bible into it. He also wrote the 
lives of thirty native Indian preachers, and eighty pious Indian men, 
women, and children. He spent sixty-three years of his life in the 
ministry, chiefly among the Indians. 

3. But no man was so greatly distinguished for his labors of love 
among the Indians as John Eliot. He was born in England, in 1604. 
In early life he was an usher in a grammar-school, under the Rev. 
Thomas Hooker, the celebrated individual who led sixty men, women, 
and children across the woods from Boston to Hartford, to settle Con- 
necticut. 

4. Mr. Eliot came to Boston in 1631, and was settled as a minister 
in Roxbury the next year, where he remained about sixty years, that 
is, until his death. He had not been in Roxbury long before he began 
to take a deep interest in the Indians, whom he believed to be the 
descendants of the lost tribes of Israel. 

5. The first thing he did, in preparation for his work, was to learn 
their language. This occupied him several years. The translation of 
the Bible into the Indian language took up two years more. At the 
age of forty-two he found himself sufiiciently acquainted with their 
language to converse with them and teach them both publicly and in 
private, 

6. Soon he was found in their wigwams, teaching them and their 
children to read, praying with them, telling them about God, preach- 
ing short and plain sermons to them, discouraging the use of strong 
drinks, as well as all their favorite vices, instructing them in farming 
and gardening, and endeavoring in every possible way to make them 
wiser and better. 

V. Mr. Eliot not only told them what to do, but he actually set them 
to work, and sometimes worked with them. He furnished the men 
with spades, shovels, crow-bars, etc., and the women with spinning- 
wheels. He set up schools and churches among them, and prepared 
ministers and schoolmasters. So faithful and numerous were his labors, 
that he obtained the name of the Indian Apostle. 

8. The following anecdote will serve to show the nature of Mr. 
Eliot's influence. One Sabbath evening, on returning from church, a 
converted Indian found his fire gone out, and, in order to kindle it, he 
split a little dry wood with his hatchet. This was thought by many 

2. The Mayhews ? 3. Eliot's early life ? 4. Wniere was he settled ? 5, What of his learn- 
ing the Indian language ? Translating the Bihle? 6, T. How did Eliot proceed with 
Ihe Indians? 8. Anecdote of an Indian? 



100 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

of the Indians a breach of the Sabbath, and was, at their next meet- 
ing, taken up and discussed. 

9. Mr. Eliot labored more particularly around Boston — in Roxbury, 
Dorchester, ISTewton, Watertown, and Natick. He was especially em- 
ployed at a place called Nonantum, in the present town of Newton, 
and at Natick. But he also went abroad, and labored in the region 
about Lowell, Lancaster, Brookfield, Yarmouth, and elsewhere. He 
not only translated the Bible, but other books, into the Indian lan- 
guage. 

10. In short, tlie good he did was incalculable. In 1660, there were 
ten towns near Boston in which the Indians were for the most part 
professedly pious, and were, till Philip's war, fast adopting the customs 
of civilization. Even in 1686, after Mr. Eliot's death, the number of 
"Praying Indians," as they were called, was estimated at five thou- 
sand; and, in 1696, thirty Indian churches existed. 

11. Mr. Eliot was regarded, in his day, as somewhat eccentric. ' He 
discouraged personal ornaments and useless expenditures. He was op- 
posed to wigs, wine, and tobacco! He wished to have every thing so 
managed that it might accomplish the greatest good to mankind, and 
the greatest glory to God. 



CHAPTEE XLII. 

Witclicy^aft in New England. 

1. It was during the long period of peace which has been alluded to 
in the foregoing chapters that the troubles arose in Massachusetts about 
witchcraft, of which so much has been said in history, and on account 
of which such heavy charges have been made against our forefathers. 

2. The first case of the kind occurred in Springfield, in 1645. In 
June, 1648, the charge of witchcraft was brought against Margaret 
Jones, of Charlestown, and she was executed. Ann Hibbins, of Bos- 
ton, came next; she was executed in 1656. Here the subject rested 
for about thirty years, when it was again revived ; and there was one 
more execution in Boston. 

3. Four years afterward, viz., in 1692, the supposed witchcraft broke 
out in Salem and Danvers. Here the first subjects of it were children. 
The disorder, whatever its character may have been, spread to the 

9. "Where did Eliot chiefly bestow his efforts ? 10. What effect did Eliot's efforts pro- 
duce ? 11. Character of Eliot ? 

Chap. XLII.— 1. What of witchcraft? 2. What cases occurred prior to 1692? 8. "What 
happened in 1692? 



WITCHCRAFT IN NEW ENGLAND. 101 

neighboring country towns, particularly Andover, Ipswich, and Glouces- 
ter. At first it affected the lower classes only ; but at length it per- 
vaded all ranks and conditions. 

4. Two daughters of a minister, in Salem, were strangely affected. 
Before this they had been quiet, happy children, but now they began 
to look wild, shriek, tell strange stories, sit barefoot among the ashes, 
or go abroad with their clothes and hair in great disorder, looking like 
insane people. Sometimes they were dumb ; at others they would 
complain of being pricked severely with pins. 

6. The madness continuing to spread, the charge of witchcraft was 
at length brought against one poor minister himself. All sorts of strange 
stories were told about him. It was especially said that he had in- 
tercourse with the devil ; and the fact that he was an uncommonly 
athletic and strong man, may have favored this idea. He would not 
confess guilt, and was hanged. Those who confessed the crime of 
witchcraft, however, were not executed. 

6. It was, indeed, a fearful time. Multitudes were suspected and 
accused, and at one period no less than one hundred and fifty were 
in prison for witchcraft. What number were actually executed, while 
"the fever lasted," is not quite certain. It is generally said that two 
hundred were accused, one hundred and fifty imprisoned, twenty-eight 
condemned, nineteen hanged, and one pressed to death. 

7. But the excitement at length passed away; and the more rapidly 
in proportion as the criminals were treated with clemency. Multitudes 
owned, at length, that they confessed their guilt to save their lives ! 
For a century past little has been said of witchcraft in the United 
States, and few believe in its existence. The events we have narrated 
are supposed to have been the result of delusion. 

8. ISTor was this disease, or delusion, much known in this country, 
even in its day, out of New England. One old woman was indeed ac- 
cused of the crime in Pennsylvania. Penn himself happened to be 
the judge, and gave the charge to the jury. They brought in a verdict 
that her friends should be bound for her to keep the peace, which put 
an end to witchcraft in that province. 

9. Supposed cases of witchcraft had been common in Europe for 
centuries, and, about the time of the excitement in New England, 
thousands were executed in England and other countries there. 



4. What of two daughters of a minister ? 5. What of the mania? A poor minister? 
6. What of the state of things during the excitement? How many were imprisoned? 
How many accused ? How many executed ? 7. What of the passing away of the excite- 
ment? 8. What of the delusion elsewhere? 9. In Europe? 
9* 



102 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 



CHAPTEK XLIII. 

History of JSew Ym^k froiii 1640 to the French and 
Indian War. 

1. We have seen how the Dutch had effected settlements on the 
Hudson Elver, they having given the name of New Netherlands to the 
'lands which they claimed, including not only the present territory of 
New York, hut that of Connecticut, and also of New Jersey. Their 
title to Connecticut was soon terminated by the occupation of the New 
England settlers, but their claims to New Jersey continued till they 
were obliged to yield their whole settlements in this quarter to the 
English in 1664. 

2. The country around the rising town of New Amsterdam, on the 
island of Manhattan, was peopled with numerous tribes of Indians, 
who were generally hostile, and who inflicted great injuries upon the 
colonists. The Dutch governors of New Netherlands had almost con- 
stant occupation in defending the settlements from these savages, 
though they also found time to attack and drive off European colonists 
who established themselves in different places upon the territories they 
claimed. 

8. About the year 1640, the Indians of Long Island and New Jersey, 
enraged at being cheated by dishonest traders, and still further excited 
by rum, broke out into open war. They attacked the settlers on Staten 
Island, and threatened New Amsterdam itself. William Klieft was 
then governor of New Netherlands, and though he displayed the ut- 
most cruelty toward the Indians, he had little success in siibduing 
them. 

4. In 1643, however, he employed an Englishman named Underhilh 
who had been distinguished in the conflicts with the Indians of New 
England, to command a considerable body of men, who attacked and 
defeated the tribes of Long Island, and, crossing over to the mainland, 
inflicted the same chastisement on the tribes at Horseneck. Peace was 
tjonsequently proposed and glady accepted by both parties. 

5. Klieft, however, was exceedingly unpopular, and his recall was 
demanded by the colonists; he set out to return to Holland with a 
ship richly laden, but he never reached his destination. His vessel was 
wrecked on the coast of Wales, and the governor perished. 



Chap. XLIII.— 1. IIow was the Dutch title to Connecticut terminated? What of 
their claim to New Jersey ? 2. What of the Indians? 3. What of the Indians in 1640? 
4 In 1648? 5. What of Governor Klieft? 



GGV^ERNOR STUYVESANT. 103 

6. The most celebrated of the Dutch governors was Peter Stuyvesant, 
who arrived in the colony in 164T. By judicious management, he con- 
ciliated the Indians, and thus converted dangerous foes into friends, 
lie settled the dispute as to boundary which had continued for several 
years with the neighboring colony of Connecticut, and also, in 1655, 
subdued and took possession of the Swedish colony of New Sweden, 
consisting of several small settlements on the Delaware River, near its 
mouth. 

7. In 1663, the Indians again became inflamed with hostility. They 
jaade a sudden attack on the settlement of Esopus, now Kingston, and 
sixty -live of the inhabitants were either killed or carried into captivity. 
A severe chastisement, however, speedily followed this act of bar- 
barity. A force dispatched from New Amsterdam pursued the savages 
to their villages, laying waste their fields, killing numbers of their 
warriors, and releasing the captives they had taken. These vigorous 
measures resulted in peace May, 1664, 

8. The province of New Netherlands, however, had still many diffi- 
culties to contend with. It had serious disputes as to territory with 
Lord Baltimore, the proprietor of Maryland, and the governor of Vir- 
ginia at the south, and with the colonies of Massachusetts and Con- 
necticut, the latter laying claim to the eastern part of Long Island. 

9. In these adverse circumstances Governor Stuyvesant conducted 
with wisdom and ability : but events of a still more serious nature, 
and quite beyond his control, were now approaching. The government 
of the colony, under a company in Holland, was in the highest degree 
arbitrary, allowing the people no voice whatever in the management 
of afiairs. In New England the colonists formed and conducted the 
government, subject only to certain general regulations from the mother 
country. 

10. The Dutch colonists, observing these facts, became dissatisfied 
with their situation, and now, as rumors of an English invasion began 
to be circulated among them, they were actually prepared to welcome 
such an event. In 1664, at a time of peace between England and Hol- 
land, Charles II., king of England, proceeding upon claims which had 
been maintained from the beginning, granted to his brother, James, 
Duke of York, the whole territory from the mouth of the Connecticut 
io the shores of the Delaware River. 

11. The Duke soon after caused a squadron to be fitted out, com- 



6. What of Governor Stuyvesant? r. What occurred to the Indians in 1663 ? 8. What 
other difficulties attended the province of New Netherlands? 9. What of the govern- 
ment of the co/ony at that period? ilow did the government of New England differ from 
the Dutch of New Nethi. Hands ? 10. What ideas had the Dutch colonists derived from 
New England? What occurred in 1664? 



104: HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

manded by Colonel Nicholas, with instructions to take possession of the 
province. When this arrived before New Amsterdam, the place was 
without defence, and although Governor Stuyvesant endeavored to 
rouse the people to resistance, it was in vain, and consequently he was 
obliged to surrender it to the English. The government of England 
was from this time, October, 1664, acknowledged over the whole ter- 
ritory of New Netherlands, the capital receiving the name of New 
York, and Fort Orange that of Albany. 

12. From this period the province of New Netherlands, henceforth 
called New York, remained in the hands of the English, except that in 
16T3, during a war between England and Holland, the latter captured 
the city of New York, but it was restored, on the return of peace, the 
next year. The government was carried on by a succession of gover- 
nors, who, for the most part, conducted in the most arbitrary manner. 

13. The first governor, being appointed by tlie Duke of York, 
to whom the province belonged, was Colonel Nicholas. In 1674 the 
noted Sir Edmond Andros, afterward the tyrant of New England, be- 
came governor. During the several wars which took place between 
France and England from 1690 to 1763, the northern colonies, lying 
along the Canadian borders, were involved in the most serious calami- 
ties. The savages, to a great extent, took part with the enemy, and, 
to the inevitable miseries of war, added the barbarities of Indian 
strife. 

14. In these conflicts. New York took a leading part, and suffered her 
share of the common burden, as will be hereafter noticed. The prov- 
ince, however, steadily advanced in numbers, wealth, and civilization. 

15. There is one melancholy page in the later history of New York, 
which must not be omitted. In the year 1741, there being many negro 
slaves in the colony, a rumor became current that some of these had 
combined to burn the city of New York, and make one of their num- 
ber governor. 

16. The subject was investigated by the magistrates, and, as there 
were plenty of witnesses, there were no less than thirty of these per- 
sons executed, some being burned at the stake. After the excitement 
of the public mind had passed away, it was generally believed that 
what has since been called in history the Negro Plot^ had no real foun- 
dation, and that the whole proceeded from mere delusion. 



1!. What of the expedition sent under the command of Colonel Nicholas? 12. From 
what period d' i +■•'■- vernment continue in the hands of the English? 13. Who was the 
lirst governor under the Duke of York ? Who succeeded Nicholas in 1674? What of the 
•vars between the French and English between 1690 and 17(53? 14. What part did New 
York take in these wars? 15, IC. What of the Negro Plot? 



SETTLEMENT OF NEW JERSEY. 105 



CHAPTER XLIV. 

History of New Jersey from its first settlement to the 
Revolution. 

1. The territorj comprising the present state of ISTew Jersey formed 
part of the Dutch province of New Netherlands. In 1623, a small 
fort, which bore the name of Nassau, was built on the eastern side of 
the Delaware, but was soon abandoned. About the same time a few 
families established themselves at Bergen, and also on the present site 
of Jersey City. 

2. Soon after the province of New Netherlands came into the hands 
of the English, the territory of New Jersey, having been transferred 
to Lord Berkley and Sir George Carteret, by the Duke of York, was 
organized as a separate province, under its present name. A liberal 
government was adopted, and in 1665, Philip Carteret arrived, and 
became the first governor. 

3. K small settlement had been made the year previous at Elizabeth- 
town by emigrants from Long Island ; here the new governor fixed 
his residence, and hence it became the seat of government. This set- 
tlement at Elizabeth town in 1664, is regarded as the first regular and 
permanent colonization of the state. 

4. The new colony enjoyed many advantages denied to some other 
northern settlements : the climate was mild, and the government liber- 
al, while the Indians, having been humbled by the Dutch, gave little 
occasion of uneasiness. Under these circumstances, many emigrants 
from New England and New York, mingled with a few others of 
various nations, soon arrived, and thus for a series of years the colony 
advanced in prosperity. 

5. At length, however, difficulties of various kinds arose. In 1673, 
the Dutch, as we have already stated, recovered the province of New 
Netherlands, and with it the territory of New Jersey ; these, however, 
were restored the next year. In 1676, the province having passed to 
new proprietors, was divided into East Jersey and West Jersey. 

6. In 1685, the Duke of York became king of England under the 
title of James II., and, utterly disregarding his former pledges, in 1688 



Chap. XLIV.— 1. Of what did New Jersey form a part? What of Nassau? What 
settlements at Bergen and Jersey City? 2. To Avhom did the Duke of York grant the 
territory of New Jersey ? Who became governor ? 8. What of Elizabethiown? 4. What 
advantages did the colony of New Jersey possess? What was the effect of these advan- 
tages? 5. What difficulties arose in New Jersey in 1673? What took place in 1676? 
6. What of the Duke of York in 1685? 
5* 



10() HISTORV OF THE UNITED STATES. 

assumed the government of both the Jerseys, placing them under the 
control of Sir Edmond Andros, whom he had already made governor 
of New York and New England. 

7. The revolution in England put an end to this state of things, but 
left New Jersey for a number of years in a very unsettled, and dis- 
organized state. In 1702 the proprietors resigned their claims, to the 
crown of England, and it became a royal province, being united, how- 
ever, to New York. In this condition it continued till 1738, when it 
became a separate province, and so continued till the Revolution. 



CHAPTEE XLY. 

History of Delaware. — Design of Gust aims AdolpJius. — 
Settlement on Christiana Creek. — Founding of the Swed- 
ish Colony. — Its Conquest hy the Dutch. — Other events. 

1. The celebrated Gus-ta'-vus A-dol'-phus, king of Swe'-den, had 
formed the plan of establishing colonies in America, and as early as 
1626, under his auspices, a trading company was formed, designed to 
promote this object. The king was, however, absorbed in the German 
war, and died on the field of Lut'-zen, in 1633, without having effected 
the scheme which he had at heart. 

2. After his death, the project was taken up by his minister, and 
Peter Minuits, the first governor of New Netherlands, but who had 
been superseded by Wou'-ter Van Twil'-ler, was employed to carry it 
mto effect. In 1638, a small Swedish colony, under the direction of 
Minuits, arrived, and formed a settlement on Christiana Creek, near 
the present town of Wilmington, at the same time building a fort for 
defence. 

3. Kieft, the governor of New Netherlands, considered this an en- 
croachment upon his territories, for the Dutch company claimed the 
whole country from Cape Cod to Cape Henlopen. He therefore sent 
a remonstrance to the Swedish settlers on Christiana Creek ; but, as 
this was unheeded, he caused Fort Nassau to be built on the eastern 
bank of the Delaware, as we have already stated, the same being de- 
signed as a check upon the Swedes. 



What did James II. do in 1C8S ? T. What effect had the revolution in England ? What 
occurred in 1702? In 1738? 

CnAP. XLV.— 1. What of Gustavus Adolphus ? 2. When did the Swedish colony under 
MinuitB arrive? Where did they make a settlement? 8. What of Governor Kieft? 



SETTLEMENT OF THE CAROLINAS. lOT 

4. They however extended their settlements, until they claimed the 
territories from Cape Henlopen to the falls of the Delaware, near the 
present city of Trenton, in New Jersey ; this colony bearing the name 
of New Sweden. In 1651, Governor Stuy'-ves-ant, of New Netherlands, 
built Fort Casimir, where the present town of New Castle stands, 
v/ithin five miles of the Swedish settlement of Christiana. 

5. Of this the Swedes obtained possession by stratagem. Greatly 
excited at the outrage, the home government ordered Stuyvesant to 
reduce the Swedes to submission. In 1655, he sailed with six hundred 
men from New Amsterdam, and speedily subdued the colony, as we 
have related in the history of New York. The inhabitants were 
kindly treated, but some of them removed to Maryland and Virginia ; 
the governor, Kising, was sent to Europe, and the colony was annexed 
to New Netherlands. 

6. From this period the history of Delaware presents few topics of 
great interest. Its territory was included in the grant to William 
Penn, in 1681, and formed part of Pennsylvania till 1691, when it was 
allowed a separate deputy-governor. It was reunited to Pennsylvania 
in 1692, but in 1703 it was again separated, having its own legislation, 
though the same governor presided over both colonies. The ancient 
forms of the government were preserved through the revolutionary 
struggle. 



CHAPTEK XLYI. 

Settlement of the Ceirolinas. 

1. The coast of Carolina was explored in 1563, and named after 
Charles IX., of France. The first attempt at a settlement, and indeed 
one of the first ever made within the present limits of the United 
States, was by Sir Walter Raleigh, in 1585, twenty-two years before 
Jamestown was settled, and thirty-five years before the landing at 
Plymouth. 

2. The fleet which brought out the first colonists to Carolina, anchor- 
ed ofi" the island of Wocokon, the southern point of the chain of islands 
and sand-bars which form Oc'-ra-coke inlet. From this island, the 



4. How did the Swedes extend their settlements ? What was the name of the colony ? 
The extent of territory claimed by the Swedes? What fort was built by Governor Stuy- 
vesant in 1631 ? 5. What of the Swedes in respect to Fort Casimir ? What was done by 
Stuyvesant? 6. "What of Delaware and the grant to William Penn ? What took place in 
1691? In 1602? In 1T92 ? How long was the ancient form of government preserved ? 

Chap. XLVI. — 1. "What of the coast of Carolina? First attempt at a settlement? 



108 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

chief officer of the fleet went to the continent, and, during an absence 
of eight days, discovered several Indian towns, 

8. He next sailed to the Roanoke River, where he landed with one 
hundred and seven persons, designed to form a colony. After remain- 
ing with them a short time, he left them under the care of a Mr. Lane, 
and returned to England. 

4. The selection of a governor for the colonists could not have been 
more unfortunate. After remaining at the spot about a year, and ac- 
complishing nothing, except to manifest a high degree of selfishness 
and shake the faith of the natives in all white men, they were taken 
back to England by Sir Francis Drake, who touched there with a fleet. 

5. No further attempts were made to settle the country till some 
time between the years 1640 and 1650, when a few planters from Vir- 
ginia, under the direction of Governor Berkley, of that province, begah 
a colony in Al'-be-marle county, within the present limits of North 
Carolina. 

6. In 1663, the whole countrj^, from the 30th to the 36th degree of 
north latitude, and — in the extravagant language of those times — from 
the Atlantic to the South Sea, was conveyed by Charles II. to Lord 
Clarendon and his associates, Avitli full power to settle and govern it. 
In 1665, a settlement was made near the mouth of the Clarendon or 
Cape Fear River, by emigrants from Bar-ba'-does ; and Sir James 
Yeo'-mans was appointed governor, 

7. A settlement was made, in 1670, at Port Royal, in South Caro- 
lina, by Governor Sayle ; and, in 1671, a few persons located them- 
selves at Old Charleston, as it was called, on Ashley River. In 1680, 
the latter spot was abandoned, and the foundation laid of the present 
city of Charleston, several miles nearer the sea. 

8. Up to that year, 1671, all the various settlements which have here 
been mentioned went under the general name of Carolina. At this 
time, however, a division took place, and the northern and southern 
provinces began to be known by the distinctive names of North and 
South Carolina. 

9. It was not far from this time that, during the administration of 
Governor Sayle, an attempt was made in South Carolina to reduce to 
practice the notions, respecting government, of John Locke, the cele- 
brated philosopher. But the plan was opposed with a degree of bit- 
terness which led to its speedy abandonment, and a return to the old 
form of government. 



2. What of the fleet ? 3. What of the landing of the colony? 4. The governor? Sir 
Francis Drake? 5. What of further attempts? 6. Lord Clarendon ? What settlement was 
made? 7. Port Royal? Charleston? 8. Name of the colony? Division of North and 
South Carolina ? 9. What of Locke ? 



WAR WITH KTNa PHIL 1 1' 



109 



CHAPTEE XLYII. 



■The War with King 



History of New England continued.- 

Philip. 

1 . We have elsewhere seen that Massasoit, the sachem of the Wam- 

panoags, remain- 
ed a true friend 
of the EngHsh to 
the time of his 
death. He left 
two sons, whom, 
in his zeal to 
show his affec- 
tion for the Eng- 
lish, he had called 
Alexander and 
Philip. The early 
death of Alexan- 
der left the king- 
dom to Philip. 

2. This chief 
resided at Mount 
Hope, in the neighborhood of the present town of Brisrol, R. I. Though 
at first friendly to the whites, he soon proved to be their most power- 
ful and deadly foe. No doubt he had reasons for his conduct which 
satisfied himself; for the English, in their dealings, were not always 
either prudent or just. Bancroft says he was "hurried into his re- 
bellion." 

3. A conspiracy appears to have been got up among the Indians, 
about the year 1G75, of which Philip was supposed to be the leader, 
to destroy the English, or at least to drive them out of the country. 
Sas-sa'-mon, a native Indian preacher, revealed the secret, and Philip 
murdered him ; he then, perliaps to cover his own crimes, rushed into 
a war. 

4. The first attack which the Indians made, under Philip, was at 
Swan'-zey, in Plymouth colony, June 24, 1675. In the fear of war, a 
day of fasting and prayer had been appointed, and the people were 
going home from church, when the savages fell upon them and killed 




PHILIP EXCITING THE INDIANS TO WAR. 



Chap. XLVII.— 1. What of Massasoit ? 
attack of the Indians ? 
10 



Philip? 8. The conspiracy? 4 The first 



110 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

eiglit or nine of their number. They liad, however, begun to rob 
houses and kill cattle some time before. 

6. Massachusetts, on hearing the news, immediately sent troops to 
aid Plymouth in opposing Philip. On the 29th of June, the united 
forces made an attack on the chief, and killed six of his men, and com- 
pelled him to flee to a swamp in the present town of Tiverton. Here 
for some time he was able to defend himself, and even to gain some 
advantages over his assailants. 

6. It was at length determined to surround the' swamp and starve 
out the Indians, as the only method of conquering them ; but Philip, 
suspecting the design, found means to escape to the Nip'-mucks, a small 
tribe in Worcester county, and induce them to join him. The English 
sent ambassadors and troops to make a treaty with the Nipmucks, but 
these were ambuslied, and eight of them killed and as many wounded. 

7. Those of the colonists who escaped, fled to Brookfleld. The 
Indians pursued them, and burnt the village, excepting only the house 
they occupied. To this also they laid siege, and for two days poured 
their musket-balls upon it, though to little purpose, except to destroy 
one man. 

8. Unable to gain their point by force, the Indians attempted a 
stratagem. They dipped rags and other combustibles in brimstone, 
and, by means of these and other things, set fire to the house, guard- 
ing the doors at the same time, in order to destroy any who should 
attempt to escape. A sudden shower of rain, as if providentially 
designed for this purpose, extinguished the flames and saved its in- 
mates. 

9. It was August 14; — that very day, and, according to the histo- 
rians, at the critical moment when the Indians, seeing the fire extin- 
guished, were about to renew the attempt to burn it, a reinforcement 
of fifty men arrived. The Indians were dispersed, and some of them 
slain. 

10. But this did not put an end to hostilities. In truth, the storm 
. of war was now merely gathering. It w^as the season of harvest, and 

every hour of time and every sheaf of grain were needed to meet the 
wants of the coming winter. This period is thus described by the 
historian : 

11. "The laborer in the field, the reapers as they went forth to har- 
vest, men as they went to mill, the shepherd-boy among the sheep, 
were shot dow^n by skulking foes, whose approach was invisible. Who 
can tell the heavy hours of woman ? The mother, if left alone in the 

f.. What of Massacluisetts? What did the troops do? fl. Philip? 7, 8, 9. Wliat of the 
colonists who fled to Brookfiehl? 9. What happened August 14? 10. Did this end the 
war? 11, 12. Describe the state of things? 



BATTLE OF BLOODY BROOK. Hi 

house, feared the tomahawk for herself and children. On the sudden 
attack, the husband would tly with one child, the wife with another, 
and perhaps onlj one escape. 

12. " The village cavalcade making its way to meeting, on Sundays, 
in files on horseback, the farmer holding the "bridle in one hand and a 
child in the other, his wife seated on a pillion behind him — it may be 
with a child in her lap — as was the custom of those days, could not 
proceed safely — bullets would come whizzing by them. The Indians 
hung upon the skirts of the English villages like the lightning upon 
the edge of the clouds." 



CHAPTEE XLVIII. 

Continiuitloii of the History of New England. — Events of 
the War with Phili]). 

1. Philip, with his warriors well armed, and the Nipmucks, had 
also powerful assistance. He had drawn to his alliance most of the 
tribes throughout New England, and was now prosecuting the war with 
new vigor. During the summer and autumn, Hadley, Deerfield, North- 
ampton, and Springfield, in the west, and Dover, Exeter, Saco^ Scar'- 
bor-ough, and Kittery, in the north and east, were made to feel the 
force of his vengeance. 

2. The fate of Captain Lathrop was most melancholy. Witli eighty 
young men — the flower of Essex county — he was escorting some teams, 
with grain, from Deerfield to Hadley. In passing through a thick 
wood, soon after leaving Deerfield, they stopped to pick a few grapes. 
Suddenly they were attacked by several hundred Indians, and seventy 
young men were slain, with twenty of the teamsters. 

3. On hearing the noise of the guns, troops were sent from Deerfield 
to their assistance, who arrived in time to kill or wound one hundred 
and fifty of the Indians, and disperse the rest, with the loss of only two 
men. The battle-ground, long known by the name of Bloody Brook, 
was near the present village of Muddy Brook. 

4. Another anecdote of this war is curious. Goflfe, one of the 
judges who had doomed Oharlos I. to death, was in New England at 
this time, and one of his hiding-places was at Hadley. The Indians 
attacked that place in September. On their arrival, Gofte, in a strange 

Chap. XLVIII —1. What of Philip and his allies? 2. Captain Lathrop and his party ? 
3. What of the troops from Deerfield? 4. What of Goffe? 



112 HISTORY Ob' THE UNITED STATES. 

dress, suddenly placed himself at the head of the citizens, drove otF 
the Indians, and disappeared. The wondering inhabitants believed, for 
some time, that an angel had been sent to their relief. 

5. The Narraganset Indians, though they would not openly fight the 
English, were known to afford shelter to their enemies, and .thus act 
against them indirectly. It was therefore resolved to wage war against 
them ; and the united colonies sent out a body of eighteen hundred 
men, with one hundred and fifty friendly Indians, to attack them in 
their quarters, amid the deep snows of December. 

6. They found them in a great swamp in Kingston, Khode Island. 
On a rising ground, in the swamp, was their fort. After a severe 
battle of three hours, the fort was taken and burnt. The Indians lost 
about one thousand of their number, including women and children, 
and five or six hundred wigwams. Only a few of them escaped. The 
English had about two hundred and thirty killed and wounded. 

T. The few remaining Indians were greatly distressed by this defeat. 
Without food or shelter, many perished ; and, of those who survived, 
the greater number w^ere compelled to subsist on any thing they could 
find — ^acorns, groundnuts, horse-flesh, etc. But they would not yield. 
'^We will fight," said Ca-non'-chet, their chief, "to the last man." 

8. Relics of the Narraganset fight, to which we have alluded, were 
to be seen within the memory of some persons now living. It is not 
long since that an Indian pipe and various Indian utensils were dug up 
on the battle-ground. Nor is it yet half a century since charred corn 
was found, having lain there about one hundred and thirty years. 



CHAPTER XLIX. 
Various Events of the War. — Death of Philip. 

1. We have seen that the Indians were greatly reduced, yet they 
were not destroyed. Philip had at first fled to the far west, to induce the 
Mohawks to join him, but his countrymen of the various tribes in New 
England had been roused to the work of burning and murdering ; and, 
in the spring of 1676, Philip returned and joined them. 

2. The depredations of the savages, during the winter of 1675 and 
the spring of 1676, were almost innumerable. Among those who 
were murdered were Captains Wadsworth and Pierce, with fifty men 
each. The latter had also twenty friendly Indians, who were killed. 



5,6. What of the Narragansets ? 7. What of the surviving Indians? 8. Relics? 
Chap. XLIX.— 1. What of the Indians? Philip? Depredations of the Indians in the 
winter of 16T5 ? What towns were burned ? 



DEATH OF PHILIF. 113 

(Vinong the towns Inirnt, either partly or wholly, were Lancaster, Med- 
field, Weymouth, Groton, Springfield, Sudbury, and Marlborough in 
Massachusetts, and Providence and Warwick in Rhode Island. 

3. Philip, on his return from the west, attempted to hide himself 
fiear Mount Hope. Concealment, however, was impossible. All New 
England was in arms against him, as he was in arms against all New- 
England, Even his own followers — perhf».ps to make better terms for 
themselves with the English — began to plot against him. 

4. One cannot help pitying the poor man ; for, though a savage, he 
Jiad a soul. He could, perhaps, have borne the mere destruction of his 
nation, but he met with a loss, soon after his return, which affected 
him more than any thing else, and severed the last ties which bound 
him to the land of his fathers. 

5. The loss referred to was that of his wife and only son, then a 
mere boy, but the king, in prospect, of the ancient tribe of the Wam- 
panoags. The mother and the child were taken prisoners by the Eng- 
lish. The youtli was transported to Bermuda, and sold as a slave. 
"My heart breaks," said the despairing chief, when he heard this; 
"now I am ready to die." 

6. Nor did he long survive. His hiding-place in the swamp was soon 
found out, and Captain Church, with a body of troops, was sent against 
him. On his arrival at the swamp where Philip was concealed, he 
placed his men around it in such a way that he might be discovered 
should he try to escape. They then commenced firing. 

7. The soldiers had scarcely begun the attack when Philip seized his 
gun and attempted to escape; but in doing so he ran toward an Eng- 
lish soldier and an Indian acting with his enemies. Tlie Englishman 
snapped his gun, but it missed fire. The Indian then fired, and Philip 
received the contents of the gun in his heart. 

8. The war continued for a time in the province of Maine, but at 
length it ceased. The chiefs came and submitted themselves to the 
English, and a permanent treaty was concluded. The war, however, 
had been a terrible one for feeble colonies to sustain. They lost at 
least six hundred men, six hundred dwelling-houses, and from twelve 
to twenty villages. The whole of New England scarcely contained, at 
the time, one hundred and twenty-five thousand white inhabitants, or 
twenty -five thousand fighting men. 

8. "What of Philip after his return from the west ? 4. What feelings are excited for 
Philip? 5. Wife and child of Philip? 6,7. Death of Philip? 8 The war? White 
population in "Sew England at this time ? 
10* 



114 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

CHAPTER L. 

Retiini to the History of Virginia. — Bacon's Rehellion. 

1. Between the years 1624 and 1639 serious difficulties had ariseu 
among the colonists in Virginia about tlieir government. The king 
of England had taken away their charter, and was ruling them in his 
own way, and by means of such governors as he was pleased to ap- 
point. In one instance, so much dissatisfaction existed with regard to 
the royal governor, that the people sent him home to England. The 
king, however, sent him back. 

2. In 1639, Governor Berkley was appointed in his stead, and the 
people were, once more, permitted to choose their representatives. 
Grateful for the privilege, they remained attached to the cause of the 
king, even after Cromwell had taken the reins of government. Eor 
this the parliament was oifended, and Governor Berkley was removed ; 
at the death of Cromwell, he was, however, restored to them. 

8. But by this time, either he or the Virginians w^ere somewhat 
changed. They grew dissatisfied with his conduct, and sent in peti- 
tions to the crown against him ; but these were disregarded. At length, 
in 16Y6, the year of king Philip's death, as just related, the difficulties 
which existed ripened into an open rebellion, 

4. Nathaniel Bacon, a bold, enterprising, eloquent, but ambitious 
young man, a member of the governor's council, was at the head of 
the rebel party. The colony had just engaged in a war with the Sus- 
que-han'-nah Indians. Bacon demanded of the governor a commission 
in the army, but being refused, a contention ensued between them, 
which ended in Bacon's suspension from the council. 

5. He was, however, soon afterward restored to his office, upon 
which he renewed his request for a commission ; but, being again re- 
fused, he collected a band of six hundred men, and marched at once to 
Jamestown. The General Assembly was in session, and, being un- 
armed, was forced to submit to his terms, and give him a commission. 

6. But he was no sooner gone than the governor denounced him as 
a rebel ; upon which, instead of marching against the Susquehannah 
Indians, according to the intention of the commission, he returned in 
great wrath to Jamestown. The aged governor fled to the eastern 
shore, and, having'collected a small force, recrossed the bay to oppose 
him. 

CuAP. L.— 1. What of the goveruuient of Virginia between 1624 and 1639 ? 2. What 
occurred in 1639? 8. What happened in 1676? t,\ 6. What of Nathaniel Bacon ? 



BACON'S REBELLION. 115 

7. The colony was thus involved in all the horrors of a civil war. 
The rebel party burnt Jamestown, many houses in the country were 
pillaged, and whole districts laid waste. The wives of some of the 
governor's party were even taken from their homes, and carried to the 
rebel camp. 

8. But, in the midst of these calamities. Bacon suddenly sickened and 
died. His followers, left without a leader, and without a definite ob- 
ject in view, began to disperse. His generals surrendered, and were 
pardoned. And thus expired the flames of a war that had already cost 
the colony about half a million of dollars. 

9. Governor Berkley now re-entered upon the duties of his office. 
But, though peace was restored, the progress of the colony had been 
retarded in various ways. Husbandry, in particular, had been greatly 
neglected, and the people were once more threatened with famine. 
About this time Governor Berkley returned to England, and soon after 
died. 

10. The colony had other difiiculties, in the years 1679 and 1680, in 
regard to raising a revenue ; and much dissatisfaction prevailed against 
Lord Culpepper, the successor of Berkley. The truth is, ideas of 
liberty and independence, which, a century later, resulted in open re- 
bellion to the mother country, were beginning to germinate, and already 
rendered the colonists impatient under the despotism of the royal gov- 
ernors sent to rule over them. 



7. Civil war? 8. What of Bacon ? Effect of his death ? 9, Governor Berkley ? 10. 
What other difficulties arose in the colony? 



116 



HISTORY OF THE UxMTED STATES. 



CHAPTER LI. 

Religious Persecution in New England. -^ 

1. We have seen that it was persecution on account of religious 

opinions which 
drove the Puri- 
tans to seek a 
home in the 
woods of New 
England ; but we 
have not yet 
shown, except in 
the case of Rogei* 
Williams, that 
they brought 
with them a mea- 
sure of the same 
intolerance from 
which they had 
attempted to fly. 
2. The spirit 

of persecution appeared, in the greatest violence, in their proceedings 
against the Friends, or Quakers. These people were the followers of 
George Fox, who believed and taught that we must obey a Divine Light 
within as superior to all other guides, and that we must think lightly 
of external forms and ceremonies. He began to spread his doctrines 
in England in 1647. 

3. In 1656, twelve of his followers appeared in Massachusetts, The 
General Court, believing their doctrine to be hostile to good order and 
pure religion, banished them from the colony, and passed laws to pre- 
vent the coming of any more. The penalty of bringing a Quaker into 
the province was one hundred pounds sterling, and the Quaker himself 
was to receive twenty lashes, and be sentenced to hard labor. 

4. Still worse than even this afterward happened. In 1657 it was 
decreed that Quakers coming into the province should have their 
tongues bored with a hot iron, and be banished. In short, no sever- 
ities were deemed too great for a people so heretical. 




A QUAKER ON TRIAL. 



Chap. LI.— 1. What can yon say of the; Puritans ? 2. Whom difl they persecute ? What 
of George Fox ? What whs done in 1647 ? 8. In 1656 ? What measures did the Generai 
Court adopt against the Quakers? 4, 5 What laws were passed in 1657? 



RELIGIOUS PERSECUTION. 117 

5. Their books even were prohibited. Any person who spread or 
secreted such books was to be fined five pounds. For defending their 
doctrines in any way, there was a fine of two pounds for the first 
oflfence, four for the second, and confinement and banishment for the 
third. 

6. The persecution against the Quakers continuing, the king wrote a 
letter to the governor of Massachusetts, requesting him to send them 
to England for trial. The governor and the court were so far moved 
to toleration by this letter, that twenty-eight Quakers, then in prison 
— some of them under sentence of death — were released, and only 
banished from the province. 

7. But, though the king was unwilling that the colonists should pro- 
ceed so violently against the Quakers, he sufiered them to be fined be- 
cause they would not take oaths, and, for the third oflfence, to be 
banished. Similar persecutions also took place in Virginia, or those 
rather which were worse ; for laws were there made against every sect 
but the prevailing one — the Episcopal or English church. 

8. The truth is, that the spirit of persecution has generally been in 
the world, and is not confined to age, country, or religion. Mr. Jeifer- 
son, in speaking of the persecution of the Quakers in Virginia, ob- 
serves, that if no execution took place there, as there did in New Eng- 
land, " it was not owing to the moderation of the church or spirit of 
the legislature." 

9. There seems to be one exception to the general truth of the senti- 
ment that the spirit of persecution has always prevailed. The govern- 
ment of Rhode Island, having passed an act to outlaw Quakers and 
seize their estates, because they would not bear arms, the people were 
so opposed to it that the law could not be carried into eftect. For this, 
however, the world is probably indebted to Roger Williams. 

10. Even in Massachusetts the persecution was carried so far that 
the colony lost many friends by it even among its own people. A law, 
passed in 1G77, for apprehending and punishing, by fine and correction, 
every person found at a Quaker's meeting, had this efifect. As a con- 
sequence, we hear little more afterward of laws against the Quakers. 

11. It may be true — it no doubt is true — that the heretics, as they 
were called, were sometimes in fault. Ann Hutchinson certainly ut- 
tered some foolish things ; and the Quakers did that which it was not 
wise for them to do ; and so, perhaps, of the Baptists and Jesuits. This, 
however, did not justify violent persecutions against them. 



6. What did the king do ? What was then done by the governor and court of Massa- 
chusetts ? 7. What persecution did the king allow ? 8. What can you say of persecution ? 
9. What of the government of Rhode Island? 10,11. What was the consequence of the 
persecution of the Quakers in Massachusetts? What may be said of those called heretics? 



118 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

12. But persecution began in this country even before 1656, tlie 
time of proceeding against the Quakers. John Wheelwright was ban- 
ished, in 1637, for preaching sedition — and also Ann Hutchinson. The 
An-a-bap'-tists, or Baptists, were persecuted in 1644, though no prose- 
cution was actually brought against them till 1666. One of the charges 
against Eoger Williams was, that he w^as a Baptist. 

13. In 1647, moreover, an act was passed in Massachusetts against 
the Jesuits. Again, in 1700, the assembly of New York passed an act 
against " Jes'-u-its and Popish priests," which was followed by a similar 
law in Massachusetts the same year. These were, accordingly, com- 
pelled to leave these provinces. It required many years of experience 
and reflection, even in America, to make the people see the folly of 
persecution on account of religious opinions. 



CHAPTEE LII. 

History of Pennsylvania. — William Penn. — His Settle- 
onent. — Treaty with the Indians. 

1. As w^e are about to notice the settlement of Penn-syl-va'-ni-a, it 
may be well to cast the eye over a map of that state, and of the con- 
tiguous states of New York, New Jersey, Delaware, and Maryland, — 
these together constituting what are called the Middle States^ — and to 
impress upon the mind their forms and relative position. 

2. In March, 1681, William Penn received a grant of the territory 
of Pennsylvania, comprising twenty-six millions of acres, on account 
of a claim of his father on the British government for sixteen thou- 
sand pounds sterling — or less than one third of a cent an acre. At 
first the grant interfered with prior grants to the founders of Maryland 
and Virginia, and caused long and angry contentions ; but they were 
finally adjusted. 

8. The lands were offered for sale in lots of one thousand acres each, 
at about a penny an acre; and many of the persecuted Quakers in 
England were induced to purchase. In the autumn of 1681, two ships, 
with passengers acting under the direction of Penn, arrived in the 
Delaware, and began a settlement just above the entrance of the 
Schuylkill [slool'-UlT\. 

12. Who were banished in 1C37? Who were persecuted in 1644? What was disliked in 
Roger Williams ? 13 What act was passed in 1647 ? What in 1700 ? 

Chap. LII.— 1. Of what do the Middle States consist? Let the teaxilier ask what 
quefitionshemay think proper on the map at page 119. 2. What happened in 1681? 
What caused contentions? 3. At what price were lots of land sold in Pennsylvania? 
What took place in the autumn of 1681 ? 



SETTLEMENT OF PENNSYLVANIA. 



119 




MAP OF THE MIDDLE STATES, 



4. Swedish settlements, along the western bank of the Delaware, 
had existed, at the arrival of the Quakers, for about fifty years, but 
they had been considered as belonging to New Jersey ; nor were they, 
in fact, very flourishing. Penn may, therefore, be justly considered as 
the founder and father of Pennsylvania. 

5. With the emigrants who were to occupy his lands, Penn had 
transmitted full instructions how to proceed. They were early to lay 



4. What of Sweclish settlements? How may Penn be considered? 5. What instruc- 
tions did he give to the emigrants as to the building of a city ? 



120 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

the foundation of a new city, but, instead of having it resemble the 
crowded cities of the old world, it was to be so planted with gardens 
around each house, as to form a " greene country towne." This was 
the origin of the beautiful squares and commons of Philadelphia. 

6. He also wrote to the Indians, at the same time, assuring them of 
his disposition to treat them kindly as brethren, and to deal with them 
justly; entreating them, as they — the whites and Indians — were all 
children of the Great Spirit, to receive and treat his people in the same 
kind manner. 

7. In October, 1682, Penn took leave of his family and came over to 
America himself. He was accompanied by a hundred emigrants ; or, 
according to some authorities, by many more. These were followed 
soon by others, so that the whole Quaker population of the province 
amounted to two thousand. Of the Swedes and Finns there were, at 
this time, about three thousand. 

8. Penn had planned a form of government before he set out, but 
lie found it necessary to modify it after his arrival. It provided for a 
governor, a council of three, and a house of delegates to be chosen by 
the freemen. Every person was to be a freeman who professed faitli 
in Christ, and sustained a good moral character; and all who believed 
in one God were to worship according to the dictates of their con- 
sciences. 

9. He had not been long in the country before he made an effort to 
bring together the Indians from various parts, to form a treaty of peace 
and friendship. They met at Philadelphia, and made the treaty at 
Avhat is now called Ken'-sing-ton, under a large elm-tree. This treaty, 
unlike most Indian treaties, w^as never broken. "Not a drop of Quaker 
blood w^as ever shed by an Indian." 

10. Penn was, for some time, the governor of the colony; and, 
under his wise and excellent management, both of the white people 
and the Indians, the colony was peaceful, prosperous, and happy, 
almost beyond example. It is true it had a fine climate and soil, in 
addition to its peaceable inhabitants. 

11. But Penn did something more than merely to act as the executive 
officer of the colony. He was, at once, governor, magistrate, preacher, 
teacher, and laborer. He was, in truth, all things to all men, and ac- 
ceptable to all. He obeyed the golden rule of the Divine law, and 
taught every body else to obey it. 



6. "What did Penn write to the Indians? 7. What took place in 1682? How large was 
the Quaker popuhition? What of Swedes and Finns? 8. What can you say of Penn'a 
form of government? 9. What of Penn's treaty with the Indians? W^as the treaty 
ever broken ? 10. What was the state of the colony under Penn's administration ? 
11. What numerous offices were filled by Penn ? What was the rule of his conduct ? 



TYRANNY IN NEW ENGLAND. 121 

12. In 1684, he returned to England, leaving the colony in the care 
of five commissioners. Here he was imprisoned several times for dis- 
loyalty, and the government of Pennsylvania, in one instance, was 
taken away from him. But it was afterward restored to him ; and, in 
1699, he came once more to America. 

13. Delaware, as we have seen, was at first included in the province 
of Pennsylvania. But about the time of which we are now speaking, 
it became a distinct colony, with its own government and officers. 
This was the result of a new charter by Penn, in which the rights 
and limits of Pennsylvania were distinctly defined. 

14. For more than seventy years all things went on prosperously in 
Pennsylvania, especially in all its transactions with the Indians. It 
was not till the year 1754, when Penn and his pacific principles had 
begun to be forgotten, that the colony became involved in an Indian 
war. 



CHAPTER LIII. 

Affairs of New England. — Governor Andros and the 
Charter Oak. 

1. About the year 1685, King James, of England, in a spirit of des- 
potism, took away the charters of Massachusetts, Rhode Island, and 
Plymouth, resolving to govern them in his own way. Joseph Dudley 
was, by his direction, made president of all the provinces except Plym- 
outh. He came over early in 1686. He was, however, succeeded the 
next December by Edmond Andros. 

2. The short administration of Dudley had been comparatively tol- 
erable ; but Andros was a complete tyrant. He glittered in scarlet and 
lace, but these had beneath them a little soul. He vainly sought to 
please his king and immortalize his own name, by retarding the pros- 
perity of the English settlements in America. 

3. He w^as instructed to restrain the printing-press as much as he 
could. Printing had been introduced in 1639, and the Freeman's Oath, 
an almanac, and some other things, had been printed. The press had 
been jealously watched all this time by the government ; still it had 
been free. But Andros would not allow so much as an almanac to be 
printed without his consent. 

12. What happened to Penn in England ? When did he return to America? 13. What 
can you say of Delaware ? When was it separated from Pennsylvania ? 14. What hap- 
pened in 1754? 

Chap. LIII. — 1. What happened in 1685? Who succeeded Joseph Dudley as presi- 
dent? 2. What can you say of Edmond Andros? 3. When was priiiting introduced? 
What had been printed at this time? 
li 



J 22 niSTOIiV OF THE UNITED STATES. 

4. The soliools of learning, hitlierto so well attended to, he suffered 
to go to decay. The usual su])purt was withheld from religious institu- 
tions. Obstacles were thrown in the way of freedom in civil elections. 
The customs of the country were made light of and ridiculed, and even 
personal liberty was endangered. 

5. As Connecticut seemed disinclined to give up her charter, Andros 
attem])ted compulsion. While the General Assembly was in session at 
Hartford, in 1087, he went there, entered the hall, and demanded their 
charter. The governor objected to giving it up, and the discussion was 
intentionally continued till it was quite dark. 

6. As evening came on, and the candles w^ere lighted, the charter 
was brought in and laid on the table, as if it was about to be given up. 
At a conceited signal every light was extinguished, and a guard of men 
seized the charter, and, under cover of the darkness, carried it to the 
south part of the city, and hid it in the hollow of an oak, which after- 
ward went by the name of the Charter Oak.* 

7. The candles were relighted, but nothing was to be found of the 
charter. Andros did not give np his purpose, however. lie still in- 
sisted on holding the reins of the government, and the people sub- 
mitted to the haughty dictator. Though they retained the charter, 
Andros selected his conncillors, and proceeded to manage the govern- 
ment of the colony in his own way. 



CHAPTEE LIY. 
The Revolution in England. — Governor Andros and Ids 
Associates transported to England. — Events of King 
Williani's War. 

1. While Andros was pursuing his course of tyranny over the col- 
onies, an unseen hand was preparing for their relief. What is usually 
called the Kevolution in England, had taken place in the latter part of 
the year 1688. King James had fled, and William, Prince of Orange, 
had succeeded him. This gave great joy throughout England and 
America. 

2. In the moment of exultation, and in remembrance of past abuses, 
the people of Boston seized Governor Andros and fifty of his most 



4. How were the colonies affected by Andros' administration? 5. What means did he 
take to deprive Connecticut of her cliarter? 6. Describe the secretion of the charter 
in the Oak? 7. Upon what did Andros still insist? 

Chap. LIV. — 1. What had been going on in the mean time in England ? 2. "What effect 
had the Revolution in England on the colonies of A merica ? 

* This celebrated tree continued to exist and to be recardod as one of the most interest- 
ing historical mementos of the country, till the year 1S56, Avhen it fell to the earth. 



KING WILLIAM'S WAR. 123 

active supporters, and sent tlieui away to England, to answer for their 
misdeeds. Connecticut and Rhode Islaiid resumed tlieir charters, and 
Massachusetts obtained a new one ; and thus they returned to the old 
order of things. 

3. But, though relieved in one way by the Revolution, they were 
burdened by it in another. King James had tied to France, and stirred 
up the French to a war with England, in which the northern Ameri- 
can colonies were most deeply concerned ; and, on account of which 
they became in the end very great sufferers, 

4. The governor of Canada, as a good and loyal subject of the king 
of France, not oidy prepared to annoy the English colonies, but also 
to employ the Indians as his allies. Still worse than all this, he not 
only set them to work, but encouraged them to plunder, burn, and put 
to death, without regarding age or sex. 

5. It needed but little to excite the Indians to deeds of cruelty. Ac- 
cordingly, we find that, on the night of February 8, 1690, one division 
of the French Canadian and Indian army attacked Sche-nec'-ta-dy, 
while the inhabitants were asleep, with the gates open, suspecting no 
danger, and completely depopulated the village. 

6. The scene was one of the most terrible which can be imagined. 
In a very few minutes only after the attack, the whole village, or nearly 
the whole of it, was in a blaze. The unoffending citizens, sick or well, 
old or young, male or female, were dragged from their beds and mur- 
dered. Sixty were killed, thirty made prisoners, and the rest fled — 
most of them naked — through deep snow to Albany. Of those who 
fled, twenty -five lost their limbs merely by the cold. 

7. Another party of the enemy fell upon the village of Salmon 
Falls, in New Hampshire, which, after killing thirty of its inhabitants, 
they burned. Fifty-four were carried into captivity, to suffer tortures 
more dreadful than death. And thus it was, in a greater or less de- 
gree, all along the northern frontier of the colonies. 

8. The spirit of the colonists was roused by these atrocities, and 
they were determined on a stern resistance. A .fleet of eight small 
vessels, with seven or eight hundred men, under the command of Sir 
William Phipps, was sent against Port Royal, in Nova Scotia, which 
surrendered with little or no resistance ; and the invading army took 
possession of the whole coast from Port Royal to Maine. 

9. Sir William Phipps was also to sail up the St. Law'-rence, with 
his fleet, while two thousand men from New York and New England 



3 "What of King James ? 4. What did the government of Canada do? 5. What did 
the Indians do ill 1690? 6. Describe the suflFerings of the people. 7. What took place at 
Salmon Falls? S. What roused the spirit of the colonists? What did Sir William Phipps 
do? 9. What other [ilaiis were formed? 



124 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

were to raarcb by way of Lake Cham-plain', and join him before 
Que-bec'. The land forces arrived in October, but, owing to adverse 
winds and other causes, the fleet did not arrive, and the troops were 
obliged to return. 

10. Instead, therefore, of ending tlic war by a heavy blow atCanada, 
it seems to have been but little more than begun. The Indians, on the 
northern and western frontier, became more and more troublesome, 
and the French more and more warlike. An attem])t against them, by 
Major Schuy'-ler, in 1692, was little more successful than that of the 
preceding year. 

11. At last the war became one of continual attack on our frontiers, 
and of feeble attempts of the colonies at defence. Thus matters went 
on about seven years, during which period the sufterings of our coun- 
trymen were severe, almost beyond description ; and their condition 
seemed almost without hope. 

12. Tired themselves of this sort of war, the French, in 1697, sent 
out a large fleet, to be aided by fifteen hundred men from Canada, with 
orders to burn Boston and New York, and ravage the country. The 
fleet arrived on the coast too late to meet the land army, and thus the 
colonies were saved. A treaty of peace between France and England 
was concluded in the month of December following. 



CHAPTEK LY. 

Story of Governor Fletcher and Captain Wadsworth. 

1. DuKiNG the progress of King William's war, probably about tlie 
second year, Governor Fletcher, of New York, having assumed the 
right to command the Connecticut militia, and being desirous of em- 
ploying them on the Canadian frontier, sent orders to Hartford for that 
purpose. 

2. Connecticut and New Haven had been united long before this, 
and the General Assembly met alternately at Hartford and New Haven. 
It was now sitting at Hartford. They refused to obey the request of 
Governor Fletcher. At this refusal, the governor went to Hartford 
himself to compel them to obey. 

3. At the time of his arrival a military company had assembled for exer- 



10. What of the Indians in the North and West? What took place in 1692? 11. In 
what state were the colonics for seven years? 12. What did the French do in 1697 ? How 
were the colonies saved ? 

Chap. LV.— 1. What of Governor Fletcher, of New York ? 2. What can you say of the 
General Assembly of Connecticut ? What did the governor do ? 



GOV. FLETCHER AND THE b li U M Al J. It 8 



12i 




GOVERNOR FLETCHER AND CAPTAIN WADSWORTH. 



oiseand review. When Governor Fletcher rode up, Captain Wadsworth, 

the senior officer of 
the company, was 
walking in front of 
his men, and giv- 
ing the word of 
command in the 
nsual way, and ap- 
peared to take no 
notice of any one 
else. 

4. The governor 
ordered his secre- 
tary to read aloud 
a paper, which he 
called his Commis- 
sion for command- 
ing the troops. 

"Beat the drums," said Captain Wadsworth, as soon as he perceived 

what was coming; and forthwith there was such a rattling of half a 

dozen drums that nothing else could be heard. 

5. "Silence!" said Governor Fletcher; "begin again with the coin- 
mission." The secretary began again. "Music! music!" said Wads- 
worth. The drummers understood their duty, and thumped and 
pounded away at a terrible rate, bass drums as well as kettle-drums, to 
say nothing of the other instruments. 

6. "Silence! silence!" cried the governor again. But no sooner 
was there a moment of silence, than Wadsworth, who was a very stout 
man, with keen eyes and fierce-looking whiskers, called out again to 
his musicians to drum, and, turning to Fletcher, said, "If I am inter- 
rupted again, I will make daylight shine through you." 

Y. Captain Wadsworth was interrupted no more by Governor 
Fletcher. The latter soon made the best of his way back to New York, 
where he had more authority than he was soon likely to obtain ovei- 
the Connecticut militia. 



3-6. Describe the reception of the crovernor and secretary. 7. What did Gotc 
Fletcher do after his failure with the militia? 
71 * 



126 



HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 



CHAPTER LVL 

Religion in the Colonies. 

1. Governor Fletcher was more successful in another direction 
_ than he had been 

at the east. The 
king,inlG93,hav- 
ing taken the gov- 
ernment of Penn- 
sylvania into his 
own hand,Fletch- 
er was placed over 
that colony as 
well as that of 
New York. Here 
he met with no 
opposition. 

2. Indeed, he 
was not without 
merit. For, to say 
nothing at present 

of what he did for the promotion of common education, he was at 
great pains to introduce public worship into the provinces he governed, 
especially New York. The Episcopal church was his favorite ; and he 
did much to introduce Episcopal ministers and build churches in the 
province. 

3. Religion, as we have seen, had been introduced into most of the 
colonies from the very first. The colonies of New England, however, 
were greatly distinguished for their piety, and especially for a pious 
and learned ministry. As early as 1642, a number of ministers had 
been sent for to go to Virginia. Others were sent for in 1698, to go to 
the West Indies. 

4. The Dutch Reformed Church was introduced into New York with 
its first settlers. The Men'-non-ites came to Pennsylvania in 1692. 
The Tunk'-ers, or General Baptists, arrived in 1719. The Mo-ra'-vi-ans 
came over in 1741. Whitefield arrived in 1738, and, though he did 




A CHURCH IN EARLY TIMES, AND A PURITAN PREACHER. 



Chap. LVI.— 1. What had the king of England done in 1693? 2. What can you sar 
in favor of Governor Fletcher? 3. AVhat of religion? How were tlie colonies of New 
England distinguished? What had been done in 1642? What in 16t)S? 4. What church 
was introduced into New York by the first settlers? When did the Mennonites come 
to Pennsylvania ? What of the Tunkers ? Moravians ? What of Whitefield ? 



RELIGION IN THE COLONIES. 127 

not found a sect, he exerted niucli intluence. The Shakers tirst reached 
America in 1774. 

5. The progress and decline of infidelity will be mentioned in con- 
nection with the history of the country during the revolutionary war 
and subsequently to that period. It revived again soon after the close 
of the second war with England, which ended in 1815, but in other 
and often less odious forms. 

6. The first Wes'-ley-an Methodist society in the United States was 
formed in New York, as late as 1766, by some Irish emigrants. They 
soon increased rapidly ; at present their number is very great. The 
Methodists are not generally Calvinists, though we sometimes hear of 
Calvinistic Methodists, 

7. The Universalists made their appearance about the year 1760, 
though John Murray, their principal leader, did not arrive till 1770. 
They are more numerous in many parts of the Union. 

8. The first church at Boston was built in the year 1632, by the two 
congregations of Boston and Charlestown, neither of the two being 
able to erect it alone. It had mud walls and a thatched roof, and stood 
on the south side of State-street. 

9. In 1642, from thirty to forty churches had been erected, and a 
greater number of ministers' houses built. The progress of these 
things was not so great immediately after this period. The long and 
tedious Indian w^ars made the people poor. In 1700 there were only 
about one hundred and twenty ministers in all New England. In 1760 
they had increased to five hundred and thirty. 

10. The Westminster Assembly of Divines, in 1642, sent an invita- 
tion to some of the ministers in the New England colonies to attend 
their meeting, but they did not comply. The next year an attempt 
was made by the Assembly of Divines to establish the Presbyterian 
government in New England, in place of the Congregational, but it 
did not succeed. 

11. The Cambridge Platform, as it was called, was adopted by the 
churches in 1648. The Saybrook Confession of Faith, sometimes called 
the Saybrook Platform, was adopted in Connecticut in 1708. These 
were some of the institutions of religion in the colonies, in early times. 
At a later date, sects of various denominations have spread over the 
country. The Eoman Catholic religion has been established, and is 



The Shakers? 5. What of infidelity ? 6. What was founded in 1T66? What can you 
say of the Methodists ? 7. The Universalists? 8. When was the first church in Boston 
built? Describe it. 9. "What had been done in 1642? What was the increase of minis- 
ters from ITOO to 1760 ? 10. What was done by the Westminster Assembly ? What was 
adopt<?rl in 1648 ? What in 1708 ? What of other sects ? The Roman Catholic religion ? 



128 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

CHAPTER LYII. 

Education in the Colonies. 

1. One of the first acts passed by the Pennsylvania assembly, after 
Governor Fletcher came into office, was an act requiring all parents 
and guardians to have their children instructed in reading and writing, 
and taught some useful trade. 

2. The subject of education had not been forgotten in the other 
colonies. As early as 1619, a college for Indian children had been con- 
templated in Virginia, to be located at Henrico; and, in 1621, measures 
were taken to connect with it a free school, and to extend its benefits 
to the children of the settlers. Ere long fifteen hundred pounds 
sterling, with large grants of land, had been appropriated to each 
purpose. 

3. Harvard College at Cambridge, in Massachusetts, was founded in 
1638, by Rev. John Harvard, a minister; and something had been 
done for the encouragement of instruction in reading and writing in 
the colony — not excepting the Indian children. Catholic Maryland had 
even spread among the people books of devotion, and encouraged the 
formation of libraries. 

4. The College of AVilliam and Mary, in Virginia, was founded in 
1692. Maryland passed laws in favor of free schools in 1694 and in 
1696. Yale College was founded in 1701, and the college at Princeton, 
in New Jersey, in 1738. A grammar-school was established in New 
York in 1702, and a free school in Charleston, South Carolina, in 1712. 
An Indian charity-school, founded at Lebanon, Connecticut, about the 
year 1760, was, in the year 1770, removed to Hanover, New Hamp- 
shire ; and, by a large grant of land and a charter of incorporation, 
became in the end Dartmouth College. 

5. In 1740, George Whitefield laid the foundation of an orphan 
house, a few miles from Savannah, in Georgia, and afterward finislied 
it at great expense. It was designed to be an asylum for poor children, 
who were to be clothed and fed, and educated in religious knowledge, 
free of expense. The institution, however, did not flourish. 

6. Something was early done in the colonies for libraries. A con- 
siderable library was given to the free school in Virginia, by Rev. 

Chap. LVII.— 1. What was one of the first acts of the Pennsylvania Assembly? 2 
What was done for the canse of education? 3. When was Hurvaid College founded ? 
What of reading and writing ? Maryland ? 4. What college was founded in 1692 ? Wliiit 
was done in 1094 and IC'IO? When was Yale College founded? Princeton College? 
"What was established in 1702? In 1712? 5. What of an orphan asylum? 



QUEEN ANNE'S WAR. 129 

Thomas Bangave. Subscription libraries were, however, first set on 
foot by Dr. Franklin, in the year 1731, 

7. Since these early days, schools and colleges have been spread over 
the Union ; school and village libraries are numerous, and some of 
them, in the larger cities, are very extensive. 



CHAPTER LYIII. 

The War of Queen Anne. — Capture of Port Royal. — 
Abortive Kepedition against Canada. — Indian Depre- 
dations. 

1. We must now return to the wars of the colonies. The winter 
before the close of King William's war in 1697, had been unusually 
severe. This, added to the expense and losses of a long and tedious 
conflict, produced a state of very great suffering. Every thing, for 
man or beast, was scarce and dear, and constantly becoming more so. 

2. And yet only five years passed away, before another French and 
Indian war broke out, little less dreadful than the former. As Queen 
Anne was then on the throne of England, we may call it Queen 
Anne''s war. It began in 1702, and continued till 1713, a period of 
eleven years ; though for the first four or five years it was chiefly con- 
fined to skirmishing on the one part, and to plundering, burning, cap- 
turing, and murdering on the other. 

3. But, in 1707, another expedition was fitted out against Port Royal. 
It consisted of one thousand men, and they sailed from Nantucket. 
Little, however, was accomplished, except to exasperate the enemy, 
and increase the suflfering on our frontiers. A land expedition against 
Canada, conducted by three thousand men, in 1708, also failed. 

4. But the idea of reducing Port Royal was not yet abandoned by 
the colonists. After repeated applications to England for help. Colonel 
Mch'-ol-son was sent over with a fleet, who, Avith the aid of a few 
regiments of troops from JSTew England, invaded and took it, and 
changed the name of the place to An-nap'-o-lis, m honor of Queen 
Anne, who was then on the throne. 

5. Encouraged by this success, another attack was planned against 

6. What was done for libraries? What was done in 1731 ? 7. "What of scbools and col- 
leges in modern times? Libraries ? 

Chap. LVIII.— 1. What was the cause of the sufferings of the colonies ^fter King Wil- 
liam's war in lfi97? 2. Describe the war from 1702 till 1713. 8. What was donP b;F the 
expedition of 1707 ? Of 17(iS ? 4. What was done by Colonel Nicholson ? 
6* 



130 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

Canada, A fleet came over from England, but the ships were without 
provisions enough to last them a single month. The colonies sup[)lie(l 
them with every necessary — both provisions and men. Fifteen ships 
of war, forty transports, and six store-ships, with seven thousand men, 
soon sailed from Boston. 

6. But this great armament, in proceeding up the Bay of the St. 
Lawrence, was misdirected by its pilots, and dis|)ersed by storms. A 
part of the transports, with seventeen hundred of the men, were cast 
away, and one thousand were lost. A land force of four thousand 
men, from Connecticut, New York, and New Jersey, which was to 
cross the country by way of Lake George, and unite with them, hear- 
ing the disastrous news, returned home again. 

7. This last failure was charged by England on the colonies, but the 
charge was unfounded. They had done their part, and indeed nmch 
more. They had not only furnished most of their own troops, at 
their own expense, but they had done a great deal toward sustaining 
the forces sent over by the mother country. 

8. The French and the Indians, all this while, continued their depre- 
dations. Along the extended frontiers of Maine and New Hampshire, 
the attacks were so frequent and the murders so numerous, that one 
half the whole body of the militia were continually on doty. 

9. The reader may be anxious to know wliat half the militia, at this 
early period, would amount to. Massachusetts, the most thickly-settled 
of the colonies, had a population, in 1710, of about eighty thousand. 
The population of all the colonies was estimated at two hundred and 
sixty thousand. From these data we may conjecture the number of the 
militia to have been about twelve thousand, but we have no exact 
statement of the number. 



5. What fleet sailed for Boston? 0. Wliat became of this great armament? Wha 
of the hand force ? 7. What had been dune by the colonies for England ? 8. What of the 
French and Indians? 9. What of the militia at this early period? Population ? 



THE WAR AT THE SOUTH. 131 



CHAPTER LIX. 

T^ui War at the South. — Unsuccessful Attem/pt against the 
iSjjanish Possessions in Florida. — The Apalaehian In- 
dians subdued. — Arrival of the Palatinates. — Indian 
Massacre. 

1. This war of Qneen Anne liad been declared against Spain as well 
as France ; and the colonies of the south, from their nearness to the 
Spanish settlements in that region, had their full share of its expenses, 
dangers, and sufferings. They, too, had Indians on their borders, which 
fact, of itself, describes tlieir condition. 

2. An expedition had been fitted out in 1702 by Governor Moore, of 
the South Carolina settlement, almost before hostilities had begun else- 
where, against Flor'-i-da. He had sailed, with twelve hundred colo- 
nists and Indians, to take St. Augustine \au-gus-teen'\ This place, if 
taken, it was supposed would give him the key of the province, and 
perhaps unlock to him treasures of gold and silver. 

3. But he found greater difficulty in taking St. Augustine than had 
been expected. The town was, indeed, soon conquered, but the fort 
held out for some time. For want of a proper understanding between 
the officers commanding the land and naval forces employed, he was 
at length obliged to raise the siege and return. 

4. This, to the colony, was not only a failure, but worse, if possible, 
than mere failure. It involved the infant settlement in an immense 
debt, to get rid of which they resorted to a paper currency, as Massa- 
chusetts had already done in circumstances somewhat similar, and sub- 
jected themselves to all its evil consequences. 

5. A more successful expedition was made, soon after, against the 
Ax>a-lach'-i-an Indians. They had become quite hostile and trouble- 
some, and Governor Moore, in order to chastise them, led his troops 
into the very heart of their country, burned their villages and towns, 
made six or eight hundred of them prisoners, and reduced the rest to 
submission. 

6. In 1706, the tide of war, in this quarter, became turned, and the 
Spaniards and French invaded Carolina, with a view to annex it to 
Florida. Governor Johnson had succeeded Governor Moore, and was 
a more efficient warrior. By his prompt and energetic movements, the 

Chap. LIX.— 1. "What can you say of the southern colonies? 2. What of Governor 
Moore? 3. What success had he in Florida? 4. What was the consequence of the fail 
ure of his plans to the colony? 5. What can you say of the Apalaehian Indians? 6. What 
took place in 1707 ? What of Governor Johnson ? 



132 HISTORY OP THE UNITED STATES. 

assailants were defeated, and the Carolinas became able, in their turn, 
to attack their invaders, and to make some captures. 

7. About the year 1710, a body of six hundred and fifty German 
emigrants settled on the Roanoke River, in North Carolina. They 
were called Pal'-at-in-ates. They had been stripped of their p,roperty 
by the ravages of war in Europe, and by the benevolence of their 
countrymen had found their way to America. Three thousand of the 
same class came to New York. 

8. The settlers on the Roanoke were headed by one Baron Graf'-fen- 
ried, a Swiss, who called the place where they settled New Berne, in 
honor of his native city. These colonists were among the best and 
most worthy citizens who had as -yet made their appearance in the 
United States. 

9. But the savages, whenever their vengeance is aroused, do not dis- 
criminate very nicely between good and bad citizens. They fell upon 
the poor Palatinates in their houses, and butchered one hundred and 
thirty-seven of them in a single night. The militia rallied, drove them 
back, and kept them in check till they could send for help to South 
Carolina. 

10. Governor Cra'-ven, of the latter colony, soon dispatched, ^ov 
their relief, a body of six hundred militia and three hundred and seventy 
friendly Indians, who, attacking the enemy with great energy, killed 
eight hundred, made one hundred prisoners, and pursued the rest to 
their own settlements, where, after destroying some six or seven 
hundred more of them, and burning their huts, they compelled them 
to make peace. 

11. The colonies at the north were also relieved in March, 1713 ; but 
the relief came from a distant quarter. A peace was concluded between 
France and England. They were not, however, immediately delivered 
from the depredations of the Indians. These continued their barbari- 
ties two years longer, and many hundreds of valuable lives were 
sacrificed. 



7. Who settled North Carolina about the year 1710? What were these settlers called? 
What had happened to them ? 8. What of the settlers on the Eoanoke ? What was 
the character of these colonists ? 9. "What did the savages do? 10. What of Governor 
Craven? 11. What took place in the year 1713? What of the Indians? 



Tin: YAM A SEE WAR. 133 



CHAPTEE LX. 

The Ya/masee War. — Great Indian League. — Severe Con- 
flid. — 'The Indians Defeated. 

1. Theee was at this time, at the southern point of the colony ot 
South Carolina, a numerous and powerful tribe of Indians, called 
Yam-a-sees'. These Indians, becoming in some way excited against 
the colonists, devised a plot to destroy them. They had also drawn 
into their scheme all the other tribes of Indians, from Cape Fear to 
Florida. 

2. On the 15th of April, 1715, about break of day, they came upon 
the village of Po-co-tal'-i-go and the plantations around, and murdered, 
in a very short time, above ninety persons. The news soon reached 
Port Eoyal, the nearest village of any considerable size, and a vessel 
happening to be in the harbor, the inhabitants all went on board, and 
sailed for Charleston. 

3. The Indians came on, and, but for their timely escape, would, no 
doubt, have massacred the whole of them. A few families on scat- 
tered plantations, who had not time to get on board the vessel, were 
all eitlier killed or captured. The tribes in the north, toward North 
Carolina, also commenced a work of destruction in that region. 

4. So great was the danger that many began to fear for the safety 
of Charleston, The governor ordered out every man in the city and 
neighborhood who was able to bear arms, except the slaves, and even 
some of the most trusty of these were enrolled ; and the most vigor- 
ous efforts were made to defend the place, and successfully prosecute 
the war. 

5. Meanwhile, the Indians on the northern frontier had gained some 
advantages over the colonists. Captain Barker, with a party of ninety 
horsemen, had been drawn into an ambush, and many of his men slain. 
Another party of seventy whites and forty negroes had surrendered, 
and been afterward murdered. 

6. The alarm increasing, Governor Craven sent to Virginia for aid, 
and even to England. He put the whole country under martial law, 
and forbade any ships leaving the province. lie also ordered bills of 
credit to be issued to pay the troops, already amounting to twelve 
hundred men. 



Chap. LX.— 1. What can you say of the Yamasees ? 2. What happened in the year 
1715 ? What was done by the people of Port Eoyal? 3. What did the Indians do? 4. 
What was done by the governor of Charleston ? 5. Describe the troubles between the 
Indians and the whites. 6. What was done now by Governor Craven ? 
12 



134 HI STORY OF THE U x\ I T E D STATES. 

7. But lie (lid not act merely upon the defensive. He marched slowly 
and cautiously against the Yamasees. Arriving at a place on the banks 
of the Sal-ke-hatch'-ie, he attacked them in their camp. Here was 
fought, from behind trees and bushes, one of the most severe and bloody 
battles which had ever been waged in the provinces, and t]ie issue 
was for a long time doubtful. 

8. The Indians were several times repulsed ; but they seemed numer- 
ous as grasshoppers in the woods, and fresh bodies of them continually 
came on to the attack. At last the governor was victorious. He drove 
them from their camp, and pursued them across the Savannah River, 
and slew great numbers. The few who survived went to Florida, and 
joined the Spaniards. 

9. What number of the colonial troops were killed in this bloody 
battle, history does not say. Four hundred were slain, in all, during 
the war. But the defeat of the savages was decisive. Several fc^rts 
were, indeed, erected on the frontiers against them, but they did not 
return to molest the settlers any more. 



CHAPTEK LXI. 

American Pirates. — ^yreck' of the Whidah. — Captain 
Kidd. — Other Pirates. 
1, In the year ITIT, a remarkable shipwreck took place on the shores 

of Cape Cod. The 
vessel in question 
was the Whidah, 
a ship of twenty- 
three guns raid 
one hundred and 
thirty men, com- 
manded by Samu- 
el Bellamy. More 
than one hundred 
dead bodies of the 
men floated on 
shore. Six es- 
caped with their 
lives, but were 
afterward taken 
and executed. 




M'RECK OF TriE WIIIDAIt. 



7, 8. Describe the battle with the Yamasees. 9. What was the effect of these Indian Avars? 
Chap. LXI.— 1. What took place in the year 1717 in respect to the VV^hidah v 



A M ERICA X P 1 11 A T K S . 135 

2. The Whidah was i pirate vessel wliicJi had long been trouble- 
some on the coast of New England. She had made many captures, 
and was greatly feared, and no one was sorry for her loss. But she 
was not the only piratical vessel on the coast. The x\tlantic Ocean 
had been infested with sea-robbers for many years. 

3. Among the more distinguislied of these lawless plunderers of the 
ocean was "William Kidd. The people of England, wishing to suppress 
piracy, about the year 1696 sent out Captain Kidd for tliis purpose. 
But he turned pirate himself, and after infesting the seas three years, 
he returned to the eastern end of Long Island, and anchored in Gar'- 
den-er's Bay. 

4. Here and in other places he was said to have buried great quan- 
tities of treasure, which he had stolen on the ocean. But how many 
of the stories concerning him are true, and how many fabulous, is un- 
certain. Only twenty thousand dollars of his hidden treasure were 
ever found. The most we know with certainty is, that there was such 
a pirate as Kidd, and that he was taken in Boston, in 1699, sent to 
England, tried, condemned, and in IVOl executed. 

5. In 1700, the year that Kidd was sent to England, the coast of 
OaroKnr^ was greatly disturbed by pirates. In a quarrel among them- 
selves, nine were turned adrift in a longboat, and, on getting ashore, 
were taken, carried to Charleston, tried, and seven of them executed. 

6. Still the pirates continued to be troublesome along the whole 
Atlantic border. In the West Indies their depredations had been 
checked by the English ; but off the coast of North Carolina they were 
still very numerous, and committed many acts of robbery. 

7. One of these vessels, with thirty men, was taken and carried into 
Charleston, and the crew tried and condemned. Another was taken, 
but the pirates were all slain, except two, before they would surrender. 
The survivors of both vessels were executed. One historian says the 
v\'hole number put to death at this period was forty-two. 

8. But the decisive blow against them was not struck till 1723. This 
year the Greyhound man-of-war took a crew of twenty-five of tliese 
sea-robbers, and carried them into Rhode Island, where, u[)oii trial, 
they were found guilty, and sentenced to be executed. Their execu- 
tion took place at Newport, July 19. 



2 What injury had been done by the Whidah? 3, 4. Tell the story of Captain Kidd. 
WHien was he executed? 5. What happened in the year 1700? (5. Were the pirates 
troublesome after the destruction of the Whidah ? 7. What retribution fell upon the 
pirates? 8, What took place in the year 1723? 



13(> 



HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 



CHAPTEE LXII. 

Settlement of Georgia. — Arrival of General Oglethorpe. 
— Attack ujpon St. Augustine. — Attack and Repulse of 
the Bjpaniards. 

In" 1732, the country between the Savnnnnh and the Al-ta-ma-ha' 
^ m, rivers, was grant- 

^^l^-'Sr^ ^^^^ e<i by George 11. 

to General O'-gle- 
thorpe and a com- 
pany of twenty- 
one others, as 
trustees for the 
estabhshinent of 
a colony in Geor- 
gia, in America. 
The first colony 
which was sent 
over consisted of 
one hundred and 
fourteen men, 
women and chil- 
dren. They ar- 
rived at Charleston, South Carolina, in January, 1733. 

2. The people of Charleston received them with great kindness, and 
did all they could to aid them in getting forward to their new resi- 
dence. The legislature voted them one hundred and four head of cat- 
tle, twenty-five hogs, and twenty barrels of rice. They also furnished 
them with a small body of troops to protect them while surveying the 
country and building habitations. 

3. General Oglethorpe and his people sailed from Charleston in a 
few days after their arrival, to explore the country they intended to 
settle in, and landed near Yam'-a-craw Blufi*, on the Savannah Kiver. 
On this bluflf General Oglethorpe marked out a town, and called it 
Savannah ; and, by the 9th of February, they were ready to erect 
buildings. 




OGLETHORl'K. 



Chap. LXII.— 1. What happened in 1732 ? What did tho first colony consist of? Wlien 
(lid it arrive at Charleston ? 2. How was the colony received ? 3. On what bluff was Sa- 
vannah situated? 



SETTLEMENT OF GEORGIA. 137 

4. For some time, however, the colony did not flourish. The trustees 
had ordered that all lands bought or held by the settlers should go back 
to the original owner, in case the settler hnd no male heirs. Nor were 
they allowed to import rum, or trade with the Indians, or make use 
of negroes. 

5. Beneficial as a part of these prohibitions must undoubtedly have 
been, it is highly probable tluit the condition in regard to the descent 
of property did harm. The people remained poor, and seemed to lack 
enterprise. Other inducements were at last held out to settlers, and 
not without success. In the course of three years fourteen hundred 
planters joined the colony. 

6. At length, the passion for conquest, or at least for power, began 
to spring up. In 1740, only eight years after the settlement of the 
colony, Genei-al Oglethorpe, as commander-in-chief of the forces of 
South Carolina and Georgia, at the head of two thousand men, marched 
to Florida, and, having taken a few small forts, besieged St. Augus- 
tine; but, after some time and much loss, he was obliged to raise the 
siege. 

7. In 1742, the Spaniards, in their turn, invaded Georgia with thirty- 
two sail of vessels and three thousand men. They ciid not, however, 
accomplish their object. General Oglethorpe was too skilful for them. 
To rid himself of his invaders, he adopted a stratagem. 

8. A French soldier from the Georgian army having deserted from 
them and gone to the Spaniards, General Oglethorpe feared he would 
inform them how weak his forces were, and thus encourage them to 
prosecute the war. To prevent this, he endeavored to make the 
Spaniards think the deserter was a spy. He, therefore, wrote a letter 
to him as such, and bribed one of tlie captive Spaniards, whom he had 
in his camp, to carry it. 

9. In this letter he had directed the deserter to tell the Spanish 
general that the Georgian forces were weak and feeble, and urge him 
on to an immediate attack. But, if unsuccessful in this, he wished 
him, if possible, to remain with the troops, where they were, three 
days longer, as he expected within that time six British ships of war, 
and two thousand troops from Carolina. 

10. This letter, as was intended, fell into the hands of the Spanish 
general, and the deserter was put in irons. A council of war being 
called, when lo ! three ships appeared in sight. Believing them the 
British ships of war which were expected, they burned the fortress and 
fled in 'confusion, leaving behind them their cannon and stores. 



4. What restrictions were placed upon the colnny ? 5. What was their condition in 
three years? 6. What was done in 1740? 7. What did tlie Spaniards do in 1742? IIow 
did General Oglethorpe treat them ? 8-10. Describe the stratagem adopted. 
12* 



13S HISTOUY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

11. Such glaring deception in an oflficer and magistrate, even in time 
of war, may startle the conscientious reader — and so it ought. But he 
must remember that almost all kinds of iniquity are tolerated in war. 
People will do almost any thing to save! themselves or their country. 
Hence the obvious and certain tendency of war to immorality. 



CHAPTEE LXIII. 

George Ilh War. — Capture of Louisburg. — Destruction 
of the French Fleet. — Peace of Aix-la-Chajpelle^ 1748. 

1. By the treaty of 1T13, the French had given up Nova Scotia and 
Newfoundland [nu' -fund-land] to Great Britain. Finding by experi- 
ence the want of a fortress in this region, they had built Lou'-is-burg 
on the island of Cape Breton. They had been twenty-five years at 
work on it, and had made it so strongthatit was regarded as a sort of 
Gib-ral'-tar. 

2. Another war having broken out in 1744, between Great Britain 
and France and Spain, the New England colonies soon found that the 
French made use of this fortress as a hiding-place for the privateers 
which annoyed or took their fishing vessels; they were, therefore, 
anxious to get possession of it; and, in 1745, having privately ob- 
tained the sanction of the British ministry, they set themselves at work. 

3. A naval force was first got ready for sea. Next, four thousand 
three hundred and sixty-six men were raised from the various colonies, 
and properly equipped. These forces, aided by Commodore Warren, 
a British officer from the West Indies, were soon before Louisburg. 
The French were taken by surprise, but they made every preparation 
to resist which was in their power. 

4. Louisburg was in two divisions — the town and the batteries. 
Both, however, were well fortified. The colonists found no great diffi- 
culty in landing and taking possession of the batteries; but to get 
possession of the town was quite another affair. It was the last hope 
of the French, and was, therefore, resolutely defended. 

5. But the assailants, having taken two months' provisions with 
them, were determined on a siege. They had captured the outposts, 
and, with them, many implements convenient in carrying on the 

Chap. LXIII.— 1. What had the French done by the treaty of 1713? What can you 
say of Louisburg? 2. What were the New England colonies anxious to do ? What did 
they do in 1745 ? -3. What forces attacked Louisburg? 4. How was Louisburg divided? 
Was the town well defended ? 6. What was determined upon ? 



SIEGE OF LOUISr>UIlG. 139 

siege ; but there was yet a great work to do. "■ Rome was not built 
in a day;" neither could Louisburg be taken in a day. 

6. Between them and the town was a deep morass or swamp, which 
horses and oxen could not pass. There had, indeed, been a draw- 
bridge over it, but it Avas now destroyed. Over this morass it took 
them fourteen days and nights to transport their cannon. But their 
end was at length gained, and a fire was opened upon the town. 

7. The siege lasted forty -nine days. Commodore Warren was of 
great service to the assailants. He not only bombarded tlie town, and 
did much in battering down the walls, but he captured one seventy- 
four-gun ship with all its men and stores. The town and island sur- 
rendered June l7th. 

8. The capture of this important post was no sooner known in France 
than a heavy naval force was dispatched to America, to retake it and 
punish the colonies for their insolence. A fleet of forty ships of war, 
fifty-six transports, three thousand five hundred men, and forty thou- 
sand stand of arms, under the direction of the Duke d'An'-ville, an 
excellent ofiicer, sailed early in the spring of 1746. 

9. AYhen the colonies heard of this armament, they were alarmed. 
They had made the attack on Louisburg without the public approbation 
of the mother country ; and, though they had gained their end, they 
had incurred the displeasure of the French, and would Britain now 
protect them from their vengeance ? 

10. But a Power unseen had already interposed in their behalf. A 
violent storm had destroyed some of the vessels and injured others, 
and one had returned to France. Only two or three of the ships, and 
a few of the transports, ever reached Halifax ; and the admiral and 
vice-admiral both died soon after their arrival. Though an attempt 
vras still made to do something, violent storms prevented the remnant 
of the fleet from acting in concert. 

11. This expedition being frustrated, nothing of importance was 
done except upon the Canadian frontiers, where the French and Indians 
were, of course, troublesome. But negotiations at last took place be- 
tween England and France; a treaty of peace was made, and the 
colonies relieved from their anxiety. This was signed at Aix-la-Cha- 
pelle [ay-la-sTia-2jell'\ in October, 1748. 



6. "What obstacles were there in the way of the besiegers ? 7. Length of the siege ? 
What of Commodore Warren ? 3 What did the French do when they heard of the cap- 
ture of Louisburg? 9. Why were the colonists alarmed ? 10. How were the French forces 
made harmless? 11. What was done on the Canadian frontiers? What treaty was made 
inlT4S? 



140 



HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 



CHAPTEK LXIY. 

Progress of Agriculticre and Manufactures in the 

Colonies. 

1. The colonies had been so much involved in the long French and 

Indian wars, that 
agriculture had 
been, as yet, but 
little attended to. 
The forests were 
indeed cleared, and 
a large amount of 
/ produce was raised, 
and not a little of 
it exported to the 
West Indies and 
England. Still, the 
more enlightened 
modes of husban- 
dry were almost as 
little known at this 
period among the English colonies as among the Dutch. 

2. Nor had the arts and manufactures made much greater progress, 
and for similar reasons. But there was another difficulty with regard 
to manufactures. The regulations and prohibitions of the mother 
country continually came in their way. It was not Sir Edmund 
Andros alone that had sought to throw obstacles in their path. The 
parliament of England had done it continually. 

3. In 1732, for example, they had passed an act prohibiting the ex- 
portation of American hats, as well as limiting the number of appren- 
tices taken by hat-makers. Again, in 1750, an act was passed to check 
the j)rogress of the iron and steel manufacture, under a penalty of two 
hundred pounds sterling. 

4. Still, something had been done both in agriculture and manu- 
factures. The introduction of tobacco into Virginia had been effected, 
and the plant had been cultivated to a very great extent. Virginia, 
in 1758, is said to have exported seventy million pounds. Eye was first 
harvested in Massachusetts in 1633. 




Chap. LXIV.— 1. Whal ot agriculture? 2. Arts and manufactures? How had the 
mother country interfered with them ? 3. What act was passed in 1732? What in 1750 ? 
4. What can be said of tobacco ? When was rye first gathered in Massachusetts ? 



AGRICULTURE AND MANUFACTURES. 141 

5. The cultivation of the grape, for the manufacture of wine, was 
introduced into Virginia in 1622; into South Carohna in 1690; and 
into Illinois, by the French settlers, in 1769. This branch of industry, 
however, was little pursued till a recent period ; it has now become 
extensive in some of the Western states, and is somewhat attended to in 
the states of New York and Connecticut. 

6. Silk-making was introduced into Virginia quite early. In 1669, 
the legislature passed an act for its encouragement. It was tried in 
South Carolina in 1703. In 1759, the manufacture of silk had be- 
come so common in Georgia, that ten thousand pounds of raw silk 
were received in a single year at Savannah ; and it brought half a dollar 
more a pound in London than any other silk. But this culture en- 
tirely ceased many years ago. The production and manufacture of silk 
were, however, prosecuted in the United States about twenty years 
since to some extent, but they are now nearly abandoned. 

7. Hemp and flax must have been introduced into Maryland early, 
for the legislature passed an act for their encouragement in 1671. Hemp 
was introduced, in 1701, into Massachusetts. Tea began to be culti- 
vated in Georgia in 1770, but it did not thrive very well. Rice was 
introduced into Carolina in 1695. The exports from South Carolina, 
in 1729, were two hundred and sixty-four thousand four hundred and 
eighty-eight barrels. Rice is now one of the leading crops of South 
Carolina and Georgia. 

8. Cotton, the great staple of the southern Atlantic states, does not ap- 
pear to have been cultivated till after the war — viz., in 1788. In 1791^ 
it first began to be exported. The whole crop of the Southern states 
then amounted to a few thousand pounds ; now it exceeds three millions* 
of bales, of five hundred pounds each, valued at a liundred and fifty 
millions of dollars. The Indigo plant was brought to South Carolina 
in 1743, by Miss Lucas, and its culture was prosecuted for a time. 
The Spanish potato was introduced into New England in 1764, 
but the Irish kind was cultivated there much earlier, 

9. The introduction of the art of printing into the colonies has been 
mentioned. The Boston News Letter — the first newspaper in North 
xVmerica — w^as begun in 1704, by Bartholomew Green, During the 
next fifty years four more newspapers were established in New Eng- 



5. When was the grape first introduced into Virginia? Into South Carolina? Illinois? 
6. When was the manutiicture of silk introduced into Virginia? South Carolina? 
Georgia? 7. What of hemp ? Flax? What of tea? Rice? What of the exports in 
1729? 8. When was cotton first cultivated? What does the present crop of cotton 
amount to? When was indigo taken to South Carolina? What of potatoes ? 9. What 
was the first newspaper printed in North America? When begun? What of other 
newspapers and books? 



142 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

land, four in the Middle States, and two at tlie South. Books, also, 
began to be published. 

10. Little was it thought in 1704, that in 1754 there would be ten 
newspapers in the provinces. Still less was it thought, that, in 1850, 
nearly a century later, the number of newspapers and periodicals in 
the United States would be more than twenty -five hundred, and their 
annual circulation four hundred and fifty millions of copies. 



CHAPTER LXV. 

Sufferings of the Colonies. — Expenses of New York and 
New England in the War of 1744. — Losses hy Sea and 
Land. — Prosperity attendant upon Peace. 

1. It is impossible for us, at the present day, to understand the full 
extent of the losses and sutferings of the colonies at this early period. 
For when we draw away a few thousand men from our present popu- 
lation, or a few thousand dollars from a national or state treasury, the 
loss is scarcely perceived ; but it was far otherwise one hundred and 
fifty or even one hundred years ago. 

2. The expenses of New England and New York in the war of 1T44, 
though it hardly lasted four years, were estimated at over one million 
of pounds sterling. Massachusetts herself is said to have expended 
four hundred thousand pounds, or two millions of dollars, in the ex- 
pedition against Louisburg. 

3. Here, again, paper money was issued, which seemed to answer, as 
it usually does, a very good purpose for the time. But it did injury in 
the end. Two or three millions of it were hardly worth half a million 
of gold or silver at the first ; and, at last, twenty pounds in bank 
notes were only worth about one pound sterling in good money. 

4. The emission of paper money, while it seemed to afiibrd relief, 
and, in truth, did aflford relief to particular individuals at the time, was 
a lt)ss to the whole community. It divided the losses of the war, it is 
true, by compelling every man, whether soldier or laborer, who held 
the money at the time of its depreciation, to bear his share. 

5. Losses had, moreover, been sustained by sea, as well as by land, 

10. What was not thought in 1704? Present number of periodicals in the United 
States ? Annual circulation of copies ? 

Chap. LXV.— 1 What difference is there in the state of things between the present 
time and one hundred years ago? 2. What were the expenses of the wars of New Eng- 
land and New York? 3. What was the value of paper money? 4. TIow was the emis- 
sion of the money hurtful? 5. How had losses been&ustaini^d ? What happened in 1641 
and 1642 ? 



PEACE AND PROSPERITY. 143 

Mirongli the odious practice of privateering. Massachusetts soon 
leai-Jied the art of trading, not only at home, but even with England 
and the West Indies. A trade was begun with the West Indies, as 
eai'ly as 1641, and in 1642 the colony had five ships already at sea. 

6. Nor were the other colonies backward to engage in commercial 
enterprise. It is mentioned as a great drawback upon the prosperity 
of the New Haven colony during the first years of its existence, espe- 
cially about the year 1647, that the trade with the West Indies was 
unfortunate, and many vessels were lost at sea. 

7. But we have other facts on this subject. In 1676, there were, in 
the whole of New England, thirty shipwrights. In 1680, Connecticut 
had twenty-four vessels engaged in trade with Boston and other 
places. In 1681, forty-nine trading vessels entered the single harbor 
of Ports'-mouth. And, in 1731, Massachusetts alone had six hundred 
sloops and vessels, with five or six thousand men, engaged in the 
fisheries. 

8. It is easy, then, to see that the losses, by means of privateers, 
during a war, to say nothing of the depredations of pirates, must be 
very great. But the loss of property, by sea and by land, was not all. 
Multitudes of the best of the citizens, of every age, especially in the 
prime of life, had fallen in the wars. 

9. What the loss of men, women, and children actually was, during 
the long French and Indian wars, is not known. The loss of Massa- 
chusetts, including Maine and New Hampshire, between the years 
1722 and 1749, when there was as little war as at any period of twenty- 
seven years after the settlement of the country, has been supposed to 
be fifty thousand. 

10. No wonder the colonies were glad to enjoy, when it came, the 
blessing of peace. No wonder trade and commerce revived, agricul- 
ture fl(nirislied, and the arts and manufactures made progress. What 
a pity the peace between the nations could not have been permanent i 
How strange that the early history of the United States, like that of 
almost every nation, should be tarnished by a series of wars and con- 
sequent sufferings! 



6 What circumstance was prejudicial to the Xew Haven colony? T. What of com- 
merce from 16S0 to 1731 ? 8 What losses were sustained during the war? 9. What of 
the reduction of population ? 10. What was not surprising ? V>^i]at is the history of al- 
most every nation ? 



144 



JJ I STORY OF THE UNITED ESTATES, 



CHAPTEE LXVI. 

Discoveries in the West. — The Mississippi and its branches 
explored hy Joliet and Marquette. — Explorations of La 
Salle and Father Hennepin. 

1. It is time now to attend to the history of the Great West. Tlio 

travels of Fer'- 
di-nand de So'-to 
have been men- 
tioned. He saw 
and crossed the 
great Mississippi; 
but the French, 
under Johet and 
Marquette \mar- 
Jcet'], two Cana- 
dians, first ex- 
plored it, togeth- 
er with some of 
its principal 
branches, such as 
the Fox, Wis- 
con'-sin, Ar-kan'- 
sas, and Illinois. This was a little before tlie time of Philip's war. 

2. A few years later, that is, in 1679, M. de La Salle, a French 
Canadian officer, equipped a small vessel at the lower end of Lake 
Erie, nearly opposite where Buffalo now stands, and, in company with 
Louis Hen'-ne-pin, a friar, and thirty-four other persons, explored the 
shores of several of the northern lakes, and, having built a small fort, 
wintered near the mouth of the Mau-mee' River. 

8. The next spring they set out again, and travelled among the Il-li- 
nois' Indians. Their travels, the year before, had given them much 
knowledge of the Indian character. They crossed the wilderness to 
the Illinois River, a journey of a few days, Avitli their canoes and pro- 
visions upon their shoulders, and then descended it. 

4. In passing along, down the river, they came to an Indian village 
of five hundred huts, but without inhabitants. Going on about one 
hundred miles further, they suddeidy found tliemselves in the midst 




LA SALLE ON HIS EXPLORING EXPEDITION. 



Chai\ LX V I.— 1. Where did Ferdinand de Soto travel ? 2. What was done by La Sail 
in IfiTft? 3. 'I l>escribc the jonrney of La Salle and his companions among the Indians. 



MAP OF THE MISSISSIPPI VALLEY 



145 



of a host of Indian warriors, on both sides of the river, who offered 
them battle. The company made signs of peace, however, and soon 
quieted their fears. 

5. The strangers conducted in such a manner tlvit not only was the 
curiosity of the Indians awakened, but their friendsliip secured; and 




MAP OF THE VALLEY OF THE MISSISSIPPI. 



Note. — In looking at a map of the Western country, representing it as it now is, wo 
gee that the valley of the Mississippi and the region of the Great Lakes are occupied by 
several states and territories. This whole region, comprising nearly three-fourths of the 
present territory of the United States, was almost entirely unsettled until about the period 
of the Revolutionary war. 

^P~ Tlie teacher v-iU here put such questions as he thinks proper. 
18 



14f> HISTORY OF THE UN ITED S T A TES. 

onr travellers concluded to remain among them for a time. Accord- 
ingly, they built a small fort and made it their residence. But the men 
grew weary of the place, and not only weary but mutinous against La 
Salle. They even attempted to excite the prejudices of the Indians 
against him. 

6. La Salle, indeed, found it easier to regain the confidence of the 
savages than that of his own men. They were still dissatisfied, and at 
length laid a plan to destroy liim and some of his friends, by mixing 
poison with their food. The poisoned food, in fact, made them very ill, 
but they all recovered. 

7. Early in the spring of 1680, La Salle set out again on his journey 
down the river. On reaching its mouth, they sailed up the Mississippi 
almost to its source. The voyage occupied them many months. On 
the 8th of November he set out for home. 

8. In returning, however, they passed through the country where 
they had seen the deserted Indian village. While in this region, they 
met with new troubles, on account of the hostility of the Ir'-o-quois 
tribe of Indians, and Father Hennepin came near losing his life. They 
escaped, finally, without any injury. 

9. In 1683, La Salle sailed down the Illinois River the second time, 
and also down the Mississippi. Here he encountered many dangers, 
and had many hairbreadth escapes, especially from the Natchez tribe 
of Indians, They reached the mouth of the river on the Tth of April. 
La Salle is supposed to have been the first white man who ever navi- 
gated the Mississippi for any considerable distance. 

10. Standing together on the shore of the Gulf of Mexico, at the 
end of a voyage of two thousand miles, in small open boats, on an un- 
known stream, whose banks were lined with savages, the party united 
in thanking God for their preservation, and in singing a hymn together, 
after which they prepared for themselves a temporary shelter. 

11. On the 11th of April they set out on their return up the river, 
visiting the Indians as they passed along. They reached Michili- 
mackinac in the month of September, soon after which La Salle sailed 
for Quebec, and thence to France, to make a report of his discoveries 
to the king. 

12. He returned once more to America, but not to the north. He 
undertook to explore the country about the mouth of the Mississippi, 
where, after many curious adventures and not a few discoveries, he 
\\ as basely murdered, about the year 1686, by one of his companions. 

5. What did the travellers conclude to do ? 6. What plan was formed against La Salle ? 
7 "What was done in 16S0? 8. What troubles did the party of La Salle encounter ? <), 
What took place in 168-".? What is said of La Salle ? 10. What did the travellers d» dd 
the shores of the Gulf of Mexico ? 11. When dil ! hey return home? 12. What was the 
fete of La Salle? 



SETTLEMENTS IN THE SOUTH AND WEST 



147 



CHAPTEK LXYIL 

Settlements in the South and West j at Kaskaskia^ in Illi- 
nois j in Louisiana', in Florida; in Michigan; at 

Natchez^ on the Mississippi ; on the Mohile River ^ in 
Alahama. — Troubles between the Ohio Company and 
the French Governor of Canada. 

1. Father Hennepin resumed his travels in tlie West after La Salle's 

death, but made 
no permanent set- 
tlements. La Salle 
and he had, how- 
ever, paved the 
way for other ex- 
plorers, and also for 
fur-traders, and ul- 
timately for emi- 
grants. The French 
claimed the coun- 
try on both sides of 
the Mississippi, and 
in fact all the way 
from the Gulf of 
Mexico to Canada. 

2. The first permanent settlement in the great Mississippi Xalley, 
as it is now called, was at Kas-kas'-kia, in Illinois — perhaps about 1688 
or 1690; for the year is not exactly known. There were, indeed, 
military forts there as early as 1687; and one also where St. Louis 
now stands. 

3. The second known white settlement in the South-west — the first 
in the Lou-is-i-an'-a country — was made by D'I'-ber-ville, of Canada, 
in May, 1699, with forty or fifty men, at the bay of Biloxi. It did not 
flourish, but led the way to better things, Pen-sa-co'-la, in Florida, 
was begun about the same time. De-troit', in Mich'-i-gan, was set- 
tled in June, 1701. A settlement was made on the Mobile River, in 
1702, and at New Or'-leans in 1717. 




SETTLEMENT AT KASK:A.SKIA. 



Chap. LXVII.— 1. What of Father Hennepin ? What did the French claim ? 2 What 
settlement was made at Kaskaskia? What of St Louis? 3. What settlement was 
jcade by D'Iberville ? What settlement was made in ITOl ? In 1702? In 1717? 



148 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

4. The settlements in the Mississippi Valley received a terrible check 
in the year 1729. The warlike tribe of Indians called the Natchez, 
having become excited against the French, seized their opportunity^ 
and murdered all the settlers they could find. Of seven hundred or 
more, scarcely enough survived to carry the tidings to New Orleans. 

6. But, instead of giving up the country, the French troops in New 
Orleans and the vicinity only meditated revenge. They pursued the 
Natchez, till they had driven them to their villages and forts, where 
they fell upon them and cut them to pieces. The few who survived 
were made slaves of, and the tribe perished. 

6. From the preceding statement, it will be perceived that the great 
valley of the Mississippi was first explored and settled by the French. 
In fact, about the year 1730, they had a line of forts and settlements 
all the way from New Orleans to Quebec. They had even ascended 
the Ohio, and built a fort where Pittsburg now stands, which they 
called Fort du Quesne [kane]. The English colonists to the east, along 
the Atlantic, were jealous of their movements, and their jealousy at 
length ripened into hostility, as we shall hereafter see. 

7. A trading company, called the Ohio Company, was formed in the 
year 1749, consisting of English and Virginia merchants, whose ob- 
ject it was to trade with the Indians for furs. They had obtained a 
grant of six hundred thousand acres of land, near the river Ohio. 
This, in turn, raised the jealousy of the governor of Canada and he 
ordered the traders to be seized. 

8. He also opened a line of communication between Presque [presk] 
Isle, as it was then called, on Lake Erie, where the town of Erie now 
stands, and Fort du Quesne, at the head of the Ohio, and stationed 
troops and built fortifications along this line. His object, in short, 
was to break up the trade of the Ohio Company, and hold the country, 

9. The Ohio Company complained of the French to Governor Din- 
wid'-die, of Virginia, who laid the subject before the General Assem- 
bly. They ordered a messenger to be sent to the French commander, 
to inquire into the cause of the measures he had pursued, and to ask 
that the forts might be evacuated and the troops removed. 

4. What took place in 1729 ? 5. What was clone by the French troops? 6. Who first 
discovered and settled the valley of the Mississippi ? What possessions had the French 
in this quarter in 1730 ? What fort had the French built where Pittsburg now stands ? 
What effect had the French settlenaents on the English colonists ? 7 What trading com- 
pany was formed in the year 1749 ? 8. What was done by the governor of Canada? 9. 
What was done by the Ohio Company ? The General Assembly of Virginia ? 



GEORGE WASHINGTON 



149 



CHAPTEK LXVIIL 

George Washington hegins his puhlic career. — His Educa- 
tion and his Character in youth. — He is sent as a Mes- 
senger to the French on the Ohio. — Anecdotes of the 
journey. 

1. The messenger intrusted with this important errand was Georgo 

Washington, 
then scarcely 
twenty-one years 
of age. He was 
a Virginian by 
birth, and had re- 
ceived no other 
education than 
that of the fam- 
ily and the com- 
mon school. His 
mind, as it ap- 
pears, had taken 
quite a mathe- 
matical turn, and 
he had early be- 
come a surveyor. 

2. But he was most distinguished for his excellent moral character. 
In this respect few young men of his time stood higher. His passions 
were indeed strong, but he strove to govern and subdue them. At the 
age of nineteen he had been made an adjutant-general of some troops, 
raised for the defence of the country against tlie Indians, and held the 
rank of major ; but he had never been called into service. 

3. Such was the person selected by Governor Dinwiddle for an ex- 
pedition at once difficult and dangerous. Several young men, to whom 
the commission had been offered, refused it, for want of courage to en- 
gage in the undertaking. But Washington was born to save his country, 
and not solely to seek his own ease and comfort. 

4. He set out on his journey from Williamsburg, the capital of Vir- 
ginia, October 31, 1Y53. He had with him an Indian mterpreter, a 
French interpreter, a guide, and four other persons, two of whom were 




WASHINGTON GOING TO PORT DU QUESNB. 



Chap. LXVIII.— X. G-ive some account of Washington. 2. His character? 8. How did 
his conduct differ from that of several other yoking men ? 4. Whom did he take with him 
on his journey? From what place did he start? 



1?. 



150 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

Indian traders; making, in all, a company of eight men, with their 
horses, tents, baggage, and provisions. 

5. The distance from Williamsburg to the principal fort of the French 
was about five hundred and fifty miles. They were to pass high and 
rugged mountains and cross deep rivers. Half the distance, moreover, 
was through a pathless wilderness, where no traces of civilization had 
yet appeared, and where, perhaps, none but savages and wild beasts 
had ever trodden. 

6. But danger did not move Washington where duty was concerned. 
He pursued his way, and delivered his letter to St. Pierre, the French 
commander, whom he found at a fort on French Creek, sixty -five miles 
north of Fort du Quesne. He obtained a reply from the French officer, 
and returned, having, however, secretly taken the dimensions of the 
French fort, and collected much useful information. 

7. His mission did not prevent a war from breaking out, but it was 
at least satisfactory to him to know that he had done what he could. 
He received the thanks of the governor and council of Virginia for 
his services. 

8. Some few anecdotes of this journey are worth relating. On their 
return homeward, Washington was shot at by a French Indian, but, 
though the savage was not fifteen paces off, according to Washington's 
own statement, and probably meant to kill him, not the slightest in- 
jury was done him. 

9. Again, as they were obliged to cross the rivers on rafts, and in 
such other ways as they could, and as it was winter, they sometimes 
narrowly escaped being drowned. In one instance they were wrecked 
on an island, and obliged to remain there all night ; the cold, in the 
mean time, being so intense that the hands and feet of the guide were 
frozen. 

10. In another instance, while descending a river in a canoe, perplexed 
by rocks, shallows, drifting trees and currents, they came to a place 
where the ice had lodged, which made it impassable by water. They 
were, consequently, obliged to land and carry their canoe across a neck 
of land for a quarter of a mile or more. 

5. How far was he to travel ? What country were they to cross ? 6. How did Wash- 
i Milton perform his task ? 7. What of his mission ? 8-10. Tell some anecdotes of the 
journey. 



BATTLE AT THE GREAT MEADOWS. 15X 



CHAPTEE LXIX. 

Washington and his hand of Virginians march against 
the French. — Battle at the Great Meadows. 

1. The French continuing their aggressions, the British ministry en- 
couraged the colonies, especially Virginia, to arm themselves and resist 
them in the hest way they could. This was in the beginning of the 
year 1754, two years before the British and French came to an open 
rupture, in what has usually been called the "French and Indian 
war." 

2. Virginia raised a regiment of two or three companies, of whom 
"Washington was made lieutenant-colonel. The case was thought an 
urgent one, and, as the chief officers in command did not arrive, nor 
any aid from the other colonies, though it had been promised, Wash- 
ington, with his little army, boldly entered the wilderness, and marched 
against the enemy. 

3. On the 28th of May, at a place called the Eed Stones, they came 
up with a party of Frencli and Indians, whom they attacked and de- 
feated, killing ten or twelve, and taking twenty -two prisoners. From 
the prisoners, Washington learned that the French forces on the Ohio 
amounted to a thousand regular troops, beside Indians. Nothing daunt- 
ed, however, he continued his march. 

4. At a place called the "Great Meadows," he halted and built a 
fort, calling it Fort Necessity. Here he waited a long time for troops 
from the other colonies; but none came, except a company of one 
hundred independents from South Carolina. The forces now amounted 
to four hundred men. 

5. On the 3d of July, Washington received information that the 
whole body of French and Indians were marching to attack him. At 
eleven o'clock they arrived, and commenced their assault. They were 
met, however, with a bravery that could hardly have been expected 
from troops so inexperienced. 

6. The battle lasted from eleven in the forenoon to eight in the 
evening. " Scarcely, since the days of Le-on'-i-das and his three hun- 
dred deathless Spartans," says Trumbull, in his "Indians Wars," " had 
the sun beheld its equal. With hideous whoops and yells, the enemy 

Chap. LXIX. — 1. "What took place in the year 1754? How long was this before the 
French and Indian war ? 2. What was done by Virginia ? What was done by Washing- 
ton ? 3. What happened at Eed Stones ? 4. What did Washington do at Great Meadows? 
6. "What happened on the 8d of July ? 6. Give Trumbull's description of the battle. 



152 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

came on like a host of tigers. The woods and rocks and tall tree tops, 
as the Indians climbed into them to pour down their bullets into the 
fort, were in one continued blaze and crash of fire-arms." 

7. Nor were the young Virginians idle. Animated by their chief, 
they plied their rifles with so much spirit that their little fort seemed 
a volcano in full blast, roaring, and discharging its thick sheets of liquid 
death. For full nine hours, salamander like, enveloped in smoke and 
flame, they sustained the shock, and laid two hundred of the enemy 
on the field. 

8. Discouraged by such desperate resistance, Count de Vill'-iers, the 
French commander, sent in a flag of truce, extolling their gallantry, 
and offering to treat with them on the most honorable terms. They 
were to give up the fort, but the troops were to be permitted to march 
away with all the honors of war, carrying with them their stores and 
baggage. The terms were accepted, and, accordingly, they left the 
fort early the next morning. 

9. Although the French commander had promised that the Virginia 
troops should not be molested, they had not retreated far, before a 
party of a hundred Indians came upon them, and robbed them of a 
part of their baggage. They soon arrived, however, without any fur- 
ther loss of life, at Williamsburg. 

10. A vote of thanks was passed by the legislature to Colonel Wash- 
ington and his brave companions, and a pistole granted to each of the 
soldiers; for, although baffled and defeated in their enterprise, they 
had conducted bravely. Of the three hundred Virginians engaged in 
che defence of the fort, only twelve had been killed. 



7. What of the young Virginians? S. What of Count de Villiers? 9. What had the 
French commander promised ? What was done by a party oi' Indians? 10. What was 
granted to Washington and his men ? What is a pistole ? jins. A Spanish coin worth 
about three dollars and sixty cents. 



UNION OF THE ENGLISH COLONIES, 



15* 



CHAFTEK LXX. 

The Union of the English Colonies in 1754. — Attacks upon 
the French Colonies. — Franklin^ s eminent services.—' 
Braddock^'s Defeat. 

1. The French and Indians continuing their depredations on the 

frontiers of the colonies, the 
British ministry, wHhout for- 
mally declaring wai\ en- 
couraged the colonists to de- 
fend themselves, and to unite 
for the purpose. They ac- 
cordingly sent delegates, whe 
met at Albany, in 1754, and 
a plan of union was adopted, 
not very unlike the preser-t 
federal constitution. 

2. This plan, or system 
was signed by the agents o^' 
Massachusetts, New Hamp 
shire, Rhode Island, Nei*' 
York, Pennsylvania, and 
Maryland, July 4th, the very 
day of Washington's retreat from Fort Necessity. The deputies fron^ 
Connecticut alone refused to sign it, though some features of the pla" 
were disliked by the colonial assemblies and the members of the 
councils. 

3. Early in 1755, the colonies proceeded to attack the French at four 
different points — Nova Scotia, Crown Point, Ni-ag'-a-ra, and Ohio 
River. The expedition against Nova Scotia, under Generals Monckton 
and Winslow, was completely successful ; the whole country was sub- 
dued, with the loss of only twenty men. 

4. The expedition against Crown Point, on Lake Cham-plain', led by 
General Johnson of New York, though a failure as to its main object, 
was yet honorable to the officers and men who were employed in it. 
In a great battle fought near Whitehall, seven hundred of the French 
were killed, and three hundred wounded, while the whole loss of the 
colonies scarcely exceeded two hundred. 




BENJAMIN FRANKLIN. 



Chap. LXX. — 1. What was done by the British ministry ? What plan was adopted by 
the colonies? 2. What agents agreed to this system? 8. What took place in 1755? 
4. What of the expedition to Crown Point ? 

7* 



154" HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

5. It was at this battle that a noble French officer, by the name of 
Dieskau, was wounded and taken prisoner. Pie was shot in the leg, 
and, being unable to retreat, was taken by an English soldier. Fear 
ing for his safety, he was feeling for his watch to give it up to the 
soldier, when the latter, supposing him to be feeling for his pistol, in- 
flicted a deep wound in his hips. He was treated with great kindness, 
and survived eleven years. 

6. The expedition against Niagara, with twenty -five hundred men, 
ttnder Governor Shirley, of Massachusetts, was begun too late in the 
year. The troops proceeded no further than Os-we'-go, on Lake On- 
ta'-ri-o, when the proposed attack was abandoned. No more attempts 
were made, in this quarter, till after the declaration of war, which took 
place June 9, of the next year. 

7. In the operations against the French, on the Ohio, there was not 
only a want of success, but a signal failure, in the memorable defeat of 
General Braddock, whom the British had sent over in February, with 
two thousand men, to the aid of the colonies. He was an aged and 
experienced officer — one who not only thought well of himself, but 
was thought well of by others. 

8. No sooner had he arrived than the Virginian Assembly raised a 
body of eight hundred men to join him, and Washington agreed to 
serve as his aide-de-camp. The army marched without being molested 
till they were within seven miles of Fort du Quesne, now Pittsburg. 

9. It was on this occasion that Franklin rendered his country a most 
important service. The troops being in want of a suitable number of 
wagons to transport their baggage, Franklin, who lived at Philadel- 
phia, persuaded the farmers of Pennsylvania to let them have both 
wagons and horses. In the end, the wagons and horses were lost, and 
Franklin was expected to pay for them. The damage was about one 
hundred thousand dollars. 

10. Franklin would have paid the debt had he been able, but he was 
not. He had advanced considerable money already. The owners of 
the horses and wagons at last began to sue him. The government, 
however, at length interposed, as they ought, and paid the debt. 

11. But to return to General Braddock. On the morning of July 9, 
when within a few miles of Pittsburg, a large party of French and 
Indians were discovered in ambush. Washington now informed Gen- 
eral Braddock what sort of an enemy he had to deal with — an enemy 
who would fight chiefly from behind hedges and rocks and trees, where 
they could not be easily seen. 

5. Tell the anecdote of the French officer. 6. What of the expedition against Niagara ? 
7. What of General Braddock ? 8. How did Washington serve ? 9. Describe the service 
rendered by Franklin. 10. Who at last paid for the wagons and horses ? 11. What did 
Washington tell General Braddock? 



BRADDOCK'S DEFEAT. 155 

12. General Braddock, who was sadly ignorant on the subject, in- 
stead of receiving the information with gratitude, was only angry, and 
said things had indeed come to a strange pass when a young Vii-ginian 
should presume to teach a British general how to fight. He would not 
even grant the modest request of Washington to let him place himself 
at the head of the Virginian riflemen, and fight the savages in their 
own way. 

13. Washington bit his lips with anguish, for he knew too well 
what would be the result. The troops were soon assailed on all sides, 
not by an enemy whom they could see and meet in fair fight, but a foe 
which, to them, was invisible. Slain by hundreds, and unable to resist, 
they soon fell into confusion, and General Braddock himself was mor- 
tally wounded. 

14. Washington, however, remained perfectly calm and self-pos- 
sessed. As soon as Braddock fell, he placed himself at the head of the 
Virginian Blues, as they were called, led them against the enemy, 
checked their fnvj, and enabled the shattered British army to retreat. 
Braddock lived long enough to see his folly and to applaud the bravery 
of the Virginians. But he died ; and Washington, to prevent the 
savages from discovering or disturbing his remains, buried him in the 
road, and ordered the wagons, on their retreat, to drive over his grave. 

15. In this battle, the English and the colonists had seven hundred 
and seventy-seven men killed and wounded, while the enemy scarcely 
lost fifty. Washington had four bullets sent through his clothes, and 
two horses slain under him, and yet he escaped unhurt! He again 
received the thanks of his country, though not in a formal manner. 

16. It was not long after this battle that, near Pittsburg, an Indian 
warrior is reported to have said that Washington was not born to be 
killed by a bullet ; for he had seventeen fair shots at him with his rifle, 
during the engagement, and yet, after all, he could not kill him. Such 
a sentiment, whether uttered by a savage or invented for the occasion, 
seems to have been almost prophetic. 



12. How did Braddock receive Washington's adv; ce ? 13. "What was the result of the 
battle? 14. "What of "Washington when Braddock fell ? Where was Braddock buried? 
15. What was the loss in this battle ? What happened to Washington ? 16. What did a 
savage say of him? 



156 



HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 



CHAPTEE LXXI. 

The French and Indian War. — Plan of the Colonists for 
talcing Crown Point. — Montcahn's cajpture of the Fort 
at Oswego^ etc. — Lord Chatham., British Minister. — 
Louisburg recaptured. — Ahercromhie^s disastrous Attach 
on Fort Ticonderoga. — Capture of Forts Frontenac and 
du Quesne. — Great Indian Treaty. 

1- Although for about two years thB French and English colonies 

had been at war, the two 
governments still maintain- 
ed the relations of peace at 
home. But in May, 1756, 
war was declared by Great 
Britain against France, in 
due form. Then began that 
celebrated conflict, called in 
our annals The French and 
Indian War. 

2. In the full expectation 
of immediate aid from the 
mother country, the colonies 
laid a plan to take the French 
forts at Crown Point* and 
Niagara, and for this pur- 
pose raised seven thousand 
men, placing them under 
the command of General Winslow, of Massachusetts. 

3. Governor Shirley had been, for some time past, the commander 
of the Massachusetts forces. But now the British ministry appointed 
the Earl of Loudon to this office, though, until his arrival. General 
Abercrombie was to have the command of the troops of Massachusetts. 
But General Abercrombie was an inefficient officer, and nothing decisive 
was done this year. 




LORD CHATHAM. 



Chap. LXXI.— 1. What were the relations of France and England at home, while the 
colonies were at war? When was war formally declared? 2. What expectations had the 
colonists? What forces were raised by them ? Where was Crown Point? 3. What of 
Governor Shirley ? Lord Loudon? General Abercrombie ? 

* Crown Point was on the western shore of Lake Champlain, and occupied a point of 
land projecting into the lake. It was ninety -five miles north-east of Albany. The site 
now presents a heap of ruins 



THE FRENCH AND INDIAN WAR. 157 

4. In the mean time, the Canadian and Indian forces, araonnting to 
eight thousand men, under General Mont-calm', had attacked and taken 
Oswego, the American key to Lake Ontario, with sixteen hundred of 
our troops, and a large quantity of cannon and military stores — as 
signal a disaster to the colonies as could have befallen them. 

5. Lord Loudon at length arrived in America, and great preparation 
was made in England and America for the campaign of the next year. 
In 1757, eleven ships of the line, fifty transports, and six thousand 
troops arrived, destined to act against Louisburg, which had again 
fallen into the hands of the French. But the attack was delayed till it 
was so well fortified that it was not tliought advisable to besiege it. 

6. General Montcalm, the French commander, in pursuing his suc- 
cesses, had, by this time, besieged and taken Fort William Henry,* on 
Lake George. Nor did he meet with much resistance, although Gen- 
eral Webb, with four thousand men, lay at Fort Edward, only fifteen 
miles off, and evidently knew what was going on. 

7. It was a condition, in the surrender of the troops at Fort William 
Henry, that their lives should be spared after the surrender ; and yet 
the Indians butchered great multitudes — the French oflicers pretending 
they could not restrain them. Yet they had a regular force of at least 
seven thousand men ! 

8. In 1758, the celebrated Mr. Pitt, Lord Chatham, was placed at 
the head of the British ministry. This event infused a new spirit into 
all the affairs of the government, and what was done with regard to 
the prosecution of the war in America, was done promptly and effi- 
ciently. 

9. He sent letters to all the American governors, requiring them to 
raise as many troops as they could, at the same time promising to send 
a large British force to their aid. The colonies complied with the re- 
quest, and Massachusetts, Connecticut, and New Hampshire, alone, 
raised fifteen thousand men. They were to be ready for action in May. 

10. The first movement was against Louisburg, in the months of 
June and July. This fortress, after a stout resistance, surrendered, 
and, with it, five thousand seven hundred and thirty-seven men. A 
considerable amount of cannon also was taken. The whole country, 
from the Gulf of St. Lawrence to Nova Scotia, fell into the hands of 
the English, 



4. What had the Canadian and Indian forces done? 5. What of Lord Loudon? What 
took place in 1757 ? 6. What of General Montcalm ? 7. What h.-ppened at Fort William 
Henry? 8. When was Pitt made prime minister? 9. What steps lid he take ? 10. What 
■was the first attack ? What fell into the hands of the English ? 

* Fort William Henry was situated at the southern point of Lake George, on the north- 
eastern border of the present state of New York. Fort Edward was on the east side of 
the Hudson Eiver, forty-five miles north of Albany. 

14 



158 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

11. An attack was next made on Ti-con-de-ro'-ga.* As Lord Lou- 
don had returned to England, the expedition was conducted by the 
inefficient Abercrombie. Though he had a force of seven thousand 
British and nine thousand colonists, and though the garrison consisted 
of but three thousand men, he was repulsed, with a loss, in killed and 
wounded, of nearly two thousand men. 

12. The passage of General Abercrombie over Lake George, when 
going to Ticonderoga, is said to have been one of the most splendid 
and imposing scenes ever witnessed. The morning was bright and 
beautiful, the music fine ; the ensigns glittered in the sunbeams, and a 
fleet of one thousand and thirty-five boats, with sixteen thousand men, 
moved along in the most exact order. How different must have been 
their return ! 

13. General Abercrombie, as if to atone for past remissness, now 
sent out three thousand men against Fort Fron'-te-nac, near the outlet 
of Lake Ontario, which in two days surrendered. An expedition 
was also fitted out against Fort du Quesne, but the French had evacu- 
ated it the evening before they arrived. It was at this period that it 
took the name of Pittsburg. 

14. A treaty was made this year at Easton, sixty miles from Phila- 
delphia, by the English colonies, with the principal tribes of Indians 
between the Atlantic and the Kocky Mountains. No less than five 
hundred Indian representatives, including women and children, were 
present, in their national costume. 

15. Among them were Mo'-hawks, O-nei'-das, On-on-da'-gas, Oa-yu'- 
gas, Sen'-e-cas, Tus-ca-rb'-ras, Nan'-ti-coques, Co'-nays, Tu'-te-loes, 
Chug' -nuts, Del'-a-wares, U'-na-mies, Min'-i-sinks, Mo-hi'-cans, and 
Wap'-pin-gers. Such an assembly had not been seen before, since the 
days of Penn. 

11. Who attacked Ticonderoga and with what success? 12. Describe the passage over 
Lake George. 13. What did Abercrombie now do? 14. What treaty was made t),'' 
year? 15. What tribes of Indians were present 7 

* Ticonderoga was situated at the outlet of Lake George. 



ATTACK UPON QUEBEC 



159 



CHAPTER LXXII. 

Campaign of 1759. — Quebec ca/ptured.- 
and Montcalm. 



-Death of Wolfe 



1. The campaign of 1759 was opened with an invasion of Canada. 

GeneralAmherst 
had succeeded 
General Aber- 
crombie as the 
commander of 
the colonial 
forces, and was a 
far more efficient 
officer. In July 
of this year, he 
led a part of his 
forces against Ti- 
conderoga and 
Crown Point, 
both of which 
were taken with- 
out much resist- 




DEATH OP WOLFB. 



2. Another division of the army went against Niagara. Here was 
some irregular fighting, during which a serious accident occurred. 
General Prideaux, the English commander, was killed by the bursting 
of a gun. He was succeeded in the command by General Johnson, 
who in a few days gained possession of the post. 

3. It now became the great object of the English and American 
forces to take Quebec. It was quite an ancient place — as old, within 
one year, as Jamestown, and was strongly fortified. It was considered 
almost as difficult to be captured as Louisburg or Gibraltar. 

4. Quebec is on the north-west side of the St. Lawrence, and is 
divided into the upper and lower town. The upper town consists of a 
high limestone rock, two hundred feet higher than the river ; but the 
lower town is a plain, almost level with the water. Where the upper 
town joins the river, is an abrupt precipice, the summit of which is 



Chap. LXXII.— 1. What took place in 1759? What of General Amherst? 2. What 
-was done by another division of the army? What of General Prideaux? 3. What of 
Quebec ? 4. Describe it. 



160 HISTORY OF THE Ux^ITED STATES. 

called the Heights of Abraham ; around it, or near it, is the plain of 
Abraham. 

5. General Wolfe, a brave and experienced British officer, sailed from 
Louisburg, with eight thousand men, in the month of June, to meet 
General Amherst there, and attack Quebec. He landed on the island 
of Orleans, a little below the city. After many unsuccessful attempts 
to approach the city, which took up the time till September, he con- 
ceived the bold plan of ascending the Heights of Abraham. 

6. After waiting as long for General Amherst as the season would 
admit, he resolved to proceed alone. Leaving the island of Orleans, 
he first went up the river nine miles. The French, observing this, 
immediately detached a part of their forces at Quebec to oppose his 
landing in that direction. 

7. But he did not intend to land there ; he had another object in 
view. He was about to attempt what no one before him had ever at- 
tempted, and what the French did not suspect. During the night of 
September 12, the troops, in flat-bottomed boats, with some difficulty, 
succeeded in landing at the foot of the heights, and an hour or two 
before daylight had begun to climb the precipice. 

8. It was no light matter for eight thousand men, to climb an almost 
perpendicular precipice of two hundred feet, and draw up after them 
all their artillery, baggage, etc. But they persevered. General Wolfe 
himself leading the way. At daybreak, the whole army had fairly 
scaled the heights, and were on the plains of Abraham. 

9. Though surprised at their appearance, General Montcalm rallied 
the French troops, and made the best possible preparation for a stout 
defence. About the middle of the forenoon the two armies met. A 
hard-fought battle followed, often contested at the point of the bayonet, 
but the English were at last victorious. 

10. The battle was not only severe, but exceedingly bloody. The 
English lost six hundred in killed and wounded, and the French many 
more — beside a thousand prisoners. But the loss was most striking in 
valuable officers. The commanders of both armies were killed, as 
well as the second in command. Two other principal generals of the 
French array were also wounded. 

11. General Wolfe, who had placed himself in the front of his army 
to encourage the troops, received a wound in his wrist, early in the 
action, but he wrapped his handkerchief around it, and continued at 
his post. Soon after, a ball pierced his groin, but he concealed the 



5. What of General Wolfe ? 6. What did he first attempt ? 7. WHiat end had he If. 
view ? What was done on the night of September 12? 8. Describe the ascent. 9. What 
of General Montcalm ? Describe the battle. Who were victorious ? 10. What was the 
loss on both sides? 11. What wounds did Wolfe receive ? 



CAPTURE OF QUEBEC. 161 

anguish, and fought on. At length, a shot pierced his breast, and he 
fell. 

12. He did not expire, however, immediately, but lived long enough 
to know the issue of the battle. "They fly ! they fly !" said the men, 
at a little distance, as he leaned, in the agonies of death, on the 
shoulder of one of his lieutenants. " Who fly ?" said he, raising for 
an instant his drooping head. Being told it was the French, " Then," 
said he, " I die happy." 

13. The death of Montcalm, the French commander, who was wound- 
ed in the battle, was not less striking. When told that his wound 
would be fatal in a short time, he replied, " Then I shall not live to 
see Quebec surrendered." He spent his last moments in writing a 
letter to the English commander, recommending the French prisoners 
to his care and attention. 

14. The death of these generals has been the theme of frequent 
eulogy ; both possessed in a high degree the soldierly merit of courage 
and devotion to their cause. Wolfe was a young man — scarcely thirty- 
three years of age, and much beloved. Montcalm was something over 
forty -five. They were not merely men of genius, and skilled in their 
profession ; they possessed the nobler qualities of truth, honor, and 
humanity. 



CHAPTER LXXIII. 

The French and Indian War concluded. — The St. Fra/n- 
cis Indians chastised. — The Cherokees defeated. — Swr- 
• render of the French North American Colonies to the 
British.— Peace of 1763. 

1. Impoetant to the colonies as were the events described in the 
last chapter, they did not end the struggle. The French were still in 
possession of a powerful army and many strongly fortified posts. In- 
deed they were not yet reconciled to the loss of Quebec. 

2. In April of the ensuing spring, the French approached Quebec 
with a view to retake it, when General Murray, who had been left in 
command of the garrison during the winter, marched out to meet 
them. A bloody battle was fought, about three miles from the city, 
in which the colonists were defeated with the loss of a thousand men. 



12. Describe "Wolfe's death. 13. Describ e the death of Montcalm. 14. What of the death 
of the two generals? What were the ages of these two great commanders? Their char- 
acters ? 

Chap. LXXIII.— 1. What of the French? 2. What of General Murray? To what 
city did the French lay siege ? 
14^ 



162 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

3. Though the loss of the French in this battle was twice as great 
as that of the English, yet, with their superior numbers, they were 
still able to invest the city. Soon after the siege was begun, an Eng- 
lish squadron arrived in the river, which attacked and destroyed a 
French fleet of six frigates, and compelled the invading army to raise 
the siege. 

4. The English and colonists now united all their strength to take 
Montreal. They had assembled at its gates a force of more than ten 
thousand men, and new troops were daily arriving, when the com- 
mander, believing resistance would be useless, surrendered the city. 
De-troit' and Michilimackinac [mish-il-e-mah' -in-ac\ now called Mack- 
inac or Mackinaw, and all the fortified posts of Canada, surrendered a 
few days afterward. 

5. During the campaign of 1759, Major Rogers, with two hundred 
men, was sent against the St. Francis Indians. Their principal town 
was St. Francis, situated near the river St. Lawrence, about half way 
between Montreal and Quebec. Major Rogers succeeded in burning 
their town, killing two hundred of their people, and taking twenty 
women and children, most of whom he afterward set free. 

6. These St. Francis Indians had been the most barbarous enemies 
with which New England had been obliged to contend. They had, in 
six years, killed and taken four hundred of the colonists, and hundreds 
of scalps were found hanging over the doors of their wigwams when 
Major Rogers entered the village. 

7. But the victory over them, though complete, was dearly bought. 
"We marched nine days," says Major Rogers, "through wet, sunkec 
ground, the water, for most of the way, being nearly a foot deep." 
In going and returning, and in the battle, he lost about a quarter of 
his men. 

8. In 1760, there was much trouble with the Cherokee Indians at 
the south, A quarrel between them and the Virginians had long ex- 
isted, but the French traders, it was supposed, inflamed the minds of 
the Indians anew. A detachment of twelve hundred men was sent 
out against them, but nothing effectual was accomplished. 

9. In 1761, a body of twenty-six hundred men, under Colonel Grant, 
met them in a great battle, in their own country, in which the Chero- 
kees were completely defeated. Their houses, magazines, and corn- 
fields were burned, and they were driven to the mountains. A few days 
afterward the chiefs came in, however, and signed a treaty of peace. 

8. "What was done by the English squadron ? 4. Why did the commander surrender 
Montreal? What places afterward surrendered? 5. What did Major Rogers do? 6 
What of the St. Francis Indians? 7. What does Major Rogers say of the march? 8. 
What happened in 1760? 9. In 1761 ? 



REVIEW. 163 

10. Although Canada was conquered, and the war ended in that 
quarter, peace was not fully concluded between Great Britain and 
France till the year 1763. In the year 1Y62, Great Britain and Spain 
were at war, and a force being about to be sent against Mar-tin-ique' 
in the West Indies, eleven battalions, consisting of four thousand men, 
under the command of General Monckton, were ordered for New York. 

11. The French struggled hard, this year, to retake Newfoundland, 
but without success. This was their last eifort. Peace was made be- 
tween the contending nations in 1763, by which all the possessions 
of the French to the northward of the United British Colonies were 
ceded to Great Britain, to which country they still belong. Louisiana 
was also ceded by the French to Spain about the same time. 

12. Thus ended the long and bloody conflict, called the French and 
Indian War. Except the Revolutionary war, of which we shall soon 
give an account, it was by far the most important conflict in which the 
American colonists were ever engaged. It resulted in removing the 
French from this continent, and in transferring to the British a terri- 
tory equal in extent to the half of Europe. 



CHAPTER LXXIY. 

Review of the preceding History. — The Thirteen Colonies. 
— The approaching Conflict of the Colonies with the 
Mother Country. — The preceding portion of this His- 
tory .^ Colonial^ the succeeding portion^ National. 

1. We have now traced the history of the English colonies in North 
America from the first settlement in 1607 to the year 1763. At this 
latter date these colonies were thirteen in number, and contained about 
two millions and a half of inhabitants. Such had been the progress 
of these settlements in a hundred and fifty-six years. 

2. In the Southern Division of the country, there were the colonies 
of YiEGiNiA, settled in 1607; North Caeolina, settled about 1660; 
South Carolina, settled in 1670; and Georgia, settled in 1733. 

3. In the Middle Division there were New York, settled in 1613; 
New Jersey, settled in 1624; Pennsylvania, settled in 1681 ; Dela- 
ware, settled in 1038; and Maryland, settled in 1634. 

10. When was peace concluded between France and England ? "What of the year 1762 ? 
11. What of the French? What was the consequence of the peace of 176.3? What of 
Louisiana? 12 What was the result of the French and Indian war? 

Chap. LXXIV. — 1. For what length of time have we now traced the history of the Eng- 
lish colonies? Population of the colonies in 1763? How many colonies were there? 
2-4. Name the thirteen colonies and the date of settlement of each. 



164 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

4. In the Northern Division there were Massachusetts, settled in 
1620; Connecticut, settled in 1633; Rhode Island, settled in 1636, 
and New Hampshiee, settled in 1623. What now constitutes the state 
of Maine, then belonged to Massachusetts; and the territory of the 
present state of Vermont, containing only a few inhabitants at that 
time, was claimed both by New Hampshire and New York. 

5. These were the colonies which took part in the French and Indian 
War, of which we have just given an account. Although the British 
government sent over ships, men, and money to aid in that war, yet 
on the colonies fell the heaviest share of the burden, and to them 
chiefly belongs the merit of the great success that attended the con- 
flict. 

6. In this war, the colonies, as we have seen, did not act separately 
as in the beginning ; they imited as all belonging to one country, and 
thus laid the foundation of that union which bound them during the 
Revolution, and which now binds them, as a republic of many states, 
forming one nation. 

Y. Hitherto, our history has been an account of the rise and pro- 
gress of separate colonies ; from this time forward, it is the history of 
a nation. We are now about to enter upon the events which caused 
a state of hostility between the colonies and the mother country, and 
which, resulting in a long and severe war, ended in a final separation 
between them. Hitherto we have spoken of the people of this coun- 
try as English ; we must henceforth regard them as Americans. 



4 What of Maine? Vermont? 5. What part did these thirteen colonies take in the 
French and Indian war ? To whom does the chief credit of the success of the war belong f 
6. Describe the union of the colonies in this war. Of what did this union lay the foun- 
dation ? 7 What has our precediuL' history been? What will the subsequent part be? 
What have we called the people of this country hitherto? What may we consider them 
hereafter ? 



TAXATION OF THE COLONIES. 165 

CHAPTER LXXY. 

PERIOD OF EVENTS LEADING TO THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 

Taxation of the Colonies. — The Sugar Act. 

1. We now come to that period in our history when Great Britain 
entered upon a system of measures which caused the colonies to re- 
sist the government of the mother country, and finally to achieve their 
independence. This system consisted mainly in the llaying of taxes 
upon sugar, stamps, tea, and various other articles imported into, or 
used in this country. 

2. As will be hereafter seen, the chief ground of opposition to these 
measures was, that the colonies were not represented by any members 
of their own country, in the British government, and that it was alike 
unjust, dangerous, and contrary to the British constitution for any 
people to be taxed by the government in which they had no represen- 
tatives to watch over and vindicate their rights and interests. 

3. As early as the year 1G51, Great Britain had begun to pass laws 
to restrain and direct the colonial trade. Similar attempts were made 
in 1660; again in 1672, 1676, 1691, and 1692. In the year 1696, a 
pampldet was published — not indeed by the ministry, but by some 
person of distinction — in which it was recommended to lay a tax on 
one of the colonies. 

4. This pamphlet was answered by two others, which denied the 
power to tax colonies which were not represented in parliament, and 
which had never consented to such taxation. Indeed, the colonies had 
always felt aggrieved by the British restrictions upon their trade and 
commerce ; and Massachusetts and New York had shown their dissatis- 
faction by public acts of their assemblies. 

5. It is true that the British had incurred a heavy expense on ac- 
count of the colonies, but then the trade of the latter was of immense 
value to them. Still they seemed determined to impose taxes in some 
form. In 1764, it was distinctly stated in the English papers, that they 
were about to defray the expenses of quartering a body of troops 
among our countrymen, by requiring a duty on sugar, molasses, indigo, 
coffee, etc. 

Chap. LXXV. — 1 . What period do we now come to in our history ? What was the 
system of measures which induced the American colonies to resist the government of 
the mother country? What was the iinal result of their resistance to the British govern- 
ment ? 2. What was the chief ground of opposition on the part of the colonies to this 
system of taxation ? 3. What passed between the years 1691 and 1696 ? 4. How was the 
pamphlet answered ? What of the colonies ? 5. What of British taxation ? What was 
done in 1764? 



166 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

6. The Sugar Act, as it was called, was passed the 5th ot April of 
this year, 1764; and it was at the same time determined that ten 
thousand soldiers should be kept in America. The British had a large 
standing army, and they must be quartered somewhere ; and why not, 
they doubtless thought, keep a part of them in America, where there 
was of late such a frequent demand for their services ? 

7. But the colonists complained loudly of both these measures, espe- 
cially as they had not given their assent to them. The Massachusetts 
agent in England had indeed partially assented to them, but the colo- 
nists had immediately protested against the concession, as admitting a 
principle which they had never intended to yield. It was all to no 
purpose, however; the parliament were determined to make the ex- 
periment of taxation without representation. 

8. How much the British were influenced, at this time, by a fear of 
the rising power of the colonies, who had shown themselves able to 
overcome, almost single-handed, the whole host of French and Indians 
from Newfoundland to the Gulf of Mexico, cannot now be known. 
Certain it is, however, that they began to entertain hostile, or at 
least jealous feelings toward our country on this account. 

9. On the other hand, the determination of the mother country to 
pay no regard to the complaints of the colonies, respecting taxation 
without representation, had laid the foundation of much ill-will, on the 
part of the colonies, toward her ; and much was said and written on 
the subject by their ablest statesmen and writers, especially by James 
Otis, of Boston, and Richard Henry Lee, of Virginia. 

10. The sugar act led to a great deal of smuggling, and finally to an 
almost entire extinction of the colonial trade with the French and 
Spanish West Indies. The colonies, to retaliate, resolved not to pur- 
chase clothing of the English, but to use, as much as possible, their 
own manufactures. 

11. This resolution was so generally adhered to, that the consump- 
tion of British merchandise was greatly diminished in the colonies, 
especially in the large and populous towns. In Boston, alone, having 
then about fifteen thousand inhabitants, it was lessened, in the year 
1764, more than ten thousand pounds sterling in value, that is, about 
fifty thousand dollars. But this, instead of inducing the English to 
relax the severity of their measures, only induced them to persevere 
in their oppression. 



6. What was determined upon ? 7 What of the colonists ? What of Massachnsetts ? 
What were the Parliament determined to do ? 8. What cannot be known ? What is 
certain? 9. What of the determination of the mother covmtry ? Who wrote on the sub- 
ject of taxation ? 10. What of the sugar act? Upon what did the colonies resolve f 11. 
What of the consumption of British merchandise ? What of the English ? 



THE STAMP ACT 



167 



CHAPTEK LXXYI. 

Tlie Stamp Act. — Dr. Franklin in London. — Patrick 
Henry's celebrated Speech. — A Congress of the Colonies. 

' 1. In 1765, the British parliament passed what has always been 

known by the 
riame of the 
Stamp Act. Ac- 
cording to this 
act, no colonial 
instruments in 
writing, such as 
deeds, bonds, 
and notes, were 
to be binding, 
or of any force 
whatever, un- 
less they were 
executed on 
stamped paper^ 
" for which a duty 
was to be paid 
to the crown of 
Great Britain. 

2. As the re- 
sult of this act, 

a ream of stamped bail-bonds would come to one hundred pounds 
sterling, or nearly five hundred dollars, and a ream of stamped policies 
of insurance to one hundred and ninety pounds ; whereas, before this, 
the former cost only fifteen pounds, and the latter twenty. It was, 
however, only a tax of one or two dollars on each sheet, and was not, 
in itself, aside from the principle on which it was based, very op- 
pressive. 

8. Tliough the act passed the House of Lords in Great Britain unani- 
mously, it met with opposition in the House of Commons. Colonel 
Bar'-re, in particular, spoke against it with great warmth and eloquence. 
And when the question was put, whether or not it should be passed, 
fifty members out of three hundred were against it. 




PATRICK HENRY. 



Chap. LXXVI.— 1. What was done in ITfiS? 2. What was tho result of this act? 8. 
What of Colonel Bavre? 



108 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

4. It is also worthy of note that, while the act was thus under de- 
bate, Dr. Franklin, who was then in London, and much respected for 
his good sense, was sent for and consulted. He told them plainly 
the Americans would never submit to it. After the act passed, he 
wrote to a friend : " The sun of liberty is set. The Americans must 
now light the torches of industry and economy." 

5. But the opposition the stamp act had met with in England was 
as nothing compared to the resistance it was destined to meet with in 
the colonies.* A general burst of indignation pervaded the country, 
and most of the legislative assemblies passed resolves, and some of them 
protests, against it. Nowhere, however, was more spirit manifested 
on the subject than in Virginia. 

6. The assembly of this colony having met soon after the news of 
the stamp act arrived, a series of resolutions, strongly expressive of 
disapprobation, was introduced, which occasioned a warm debate and 
some very hard words. It was on this occasion that Patrick Henry, 
then quite a young man, by a bold remark of his, gave an impulse that 
was felt from one end of the continent to the other. 

7. He had been asserting that the British king had acted the part 
of a tyrant. Then, alluding to the fate of other tyrants, he observed, 
" Caesar had his Brutus, Charles I. his Cromwell, and George III. 

" Here he paused ; upon which the cry of " Treason ! treason !" 

being raised in the house, he only added, '■'■may profit hy their exam- 
ple! If that be treason, make the most of it." 

8. A Congress of the colonies having been recommended by Massa- 
chusetts, one was accordingly convened in New York, in October. It 
consisted of three members from each of the colonies of Massachu- 
setts, Rhode Island, Connecticut, New York, New Jersey, Pennsyl- 
vania, Delaware, Maryland, and South Carolina. They remonstrated 
against the stamp act, and drew up a declaration of their rights, de- 
claring taxation and representation to be inseparable. 

9. But the public disapprobation was expressed in another way. 
The people had burned, or reshipped, or hid, the stamped paper already 
in the colonies, so that on the day in which the act went into opera- 
tion, little, if any, could be found. They would not even receive the 
Canadian gazettes, because they were on stamped paper. Such a 
course was indeed equivalent to the suspension of nearly all business, 
but it was resolutely persevered in. 



4. Relate the anecdote of Frnnklin. 5. What effect had the stamp act in the colonies? 
f). What resolutions were passed ? What of Patrick Henry ? 7. Relate the anecdote of hiin. 
s. What of a congress of the colonies? 9. How was disapprobation otherwise expressed ? 

* Massachusetts had passed a stamp act of her own, in 1759, which included even news- 
papei's ; but she was not willing to be taxed by the British government. 



SOCIETIES AND MOBS, ] e*() 

CHAPTER LXXYII. 

Newspape-rs^ Societies and Mohs. 

1. Newspapers had as great an influence on the public mind, in pro- 
portion to their number, in 1765, as now, and perhaps even greater. 
These continued to be published, though on inferior paper. They 
\vere, as with one voice, clamorous against the stamp act, and severe 
in their denunciations of those w^ho were friendly to it. 

2. Societies in great numbers were formed during this year, of those 
who were determined to unite in resisting parliamentary oppression. 
They called themselves " Sons of Liberty." They were particularly 
numerous in N"ew York, Connecticut, and Massachusetts. Toward the 
close of the year, these associations, in the several colonies, became 
united by a kind of national compact. 

3. Societies of quite another kind were also formed. Dr. Franklin 
had advised the people to " light the lamps of industry and economy." 
These, therefore, embraced persons of all ages and of both sexes, who 
were more walling to do without luxuries, and live by their own in- 
dustry, than to depend on Great Britain. 

4. Instead of wearing imported cloth, the more wealthy people were 
soon seen in dresses of their own manufacture ; and for fear there 
might not be wool enough for their purpose, the use of sheep for food 
was discouraged. The most fashionable people could now card, spin, 
and weave their own cloth, and deny themselves the use of all foreign 
luxuries. 

5. Nor were these resolutions and changes in modes of living, con- 
fined to cities and towns, and to the more wealthy. Close economy 
became the order of the day. Multitudes of artisans and manufac- 
turers in England were left without employment, as the consequence 
of the diminished sale of their productions in the colonies ; and Great 
Britain everywhere began to feel the consequences of her folly. 

6. Meanwhile, mobs began to be got up in the colonies. In August, 
two images, called effigies^ were found hanging on the branch of an old 
elm tree, near the southern limits of Boston. One represented a stamp 
officer. There was a great jack-boot also, out of which rose a horned 
head, which seemed to gaze around. Multitudes collected from all 
parts to witness the strange sight. 

Chap. LXXVII.— 1. What of newspapers in lT(i5? 2. Societies? 8. Other societies? 
4, What was done by the more wealthy people? 5. Describe other changes in the modes 
of living. 6. Describe the eflftgies in Boston. 
15 



170 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

7. This, liowever, was but the beginning of mobs and mob Liw, 
About dark the same day, the effigies in Boston were taken down, 
placed on a bier, and carried about tlie city in solemn procession. The 
mob followed, shouting aloud, "Liberty and property forever, and no 
stamps!" 

8. After passing through several of the principal streets, they halted 
at a building belonging to one Oliver, a stamp officer, which they sup- 
posed to be intended for a stamp office, and having demolished it, 
carried the wood through the streets, with a tremendous noise, to 
the dwelling of Mr. Oliver; where, having gone through the cere- 
mony of cutting ofi* his head, in effigy, they finished by breaking his 
windows. 

9. They then marched up Fort Hill, still following the two figures, 
jack-boots, horns, and all. Here they kindled a bonfire with them, 
returned to Oliver's house with clubs and staves, and destroyed his 
gardeps, fences, and out-houses. Oliver fled. They then broke open 
his doors, and destroyed much of his furniture. The next day, Mr. 
Oliver gave notice that he would not serve as a stamp officer ; upon 
which the farce ended. 

10. These riotous acts, or those which were similar, were repeated 
in Boston and elsewhere throughout New England, and even in New 
York, Maryland, and the Carolinas. At Newport and New York, the 
effigies of various political characters who were disliked were dragged 
about, hung, burned, etc. ; and, in a few instances, houses were 
plundered. 



CHAPTER LXXYIII. 

Repeal of the Stccmp Act. 

1. The king and parliament of Great Britain finally saw their error, 
but they were too proud to retrace their steps by repealing the of- 
fensive law. However, something must be done to quiet the colonies ; 
and this became, at the opening of the parliament in 1766, a leading 
object of incjuiry. 

2. Dr. Franklin was again consulted on the subject. He did not 
assume an air of triumph, and say, "I told you all this would happen." 
He knew too well the weakness and folly of human nature, even in 
members of parliament. He only repeated what he had before said, 
"That, though the Americans were a reasonable people, they would 

7. What more was done by the tnob? 8, 9. Describe the procession. 10. What took 
piuce in New England ami elsewhere? 
CuAP. LXX Vlli.— 1 . What of the king and parliament ? 2. What of Dr. Franklin ? 



RKPEAL OF THE STAMP ACT 



171 




COLONEL BARRE. 



never subiuit to taxation of any kind without representation, unless 

compelled to do so by mere 
force of arras." 

3. Fortunately for Great 
Britain, as well as America, 
there had been about this 
time a change in the admin- 
istration, and the repeal 
of the stamp act had be- 
come, at length, a subject 
of earnest and deep con- 
sideration. And though 
there was great and even 
obstinate opposition to its 
repeal, the measure was at 
length carried. 

4. The repeal of the act 
was hailed with universal 

joy. The American merchants in London were among the first to tes- 
tify their gratitude. Tlie ships lying in the river Thames displayed 
their colors. The houses of the city were lighted up, cannon fired, 
bonfires kindled, and messengers sent to spread the news, as fast as 
possible, in England and America. 

5. But it was in America that the tidings were received with joy the 

most heartfelt and sincere. The 
general assemblies of Massa(;hu- 
setts and Virginia went so far as 
to vote thanks to Mr. Pitt and 
the other members of parliament 
who had done so much to effect 
a repeal ; and in Virginia it wiis 
proposed to erect a statue to the 
king. Mr. Pitt, Colonel Barre, and 
Edmund Burke, who had favored 
our cause in parliament, received 
the thanks of the people, and 
Charles Grenville, who had op- 
posed it with great ability, e^: 
cited general feelings of indigna- 
tion. 




EDMUND BURKE. 



3. Was the stamp act repealed ? 4. How was the i<>y of the Americans 'U London ex- 
pressed on account of the repeal? 5. What was done in America ? 



172 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

6. There was one drawback upon the general joy ; for, at the time 
of voting for the repeal of the stamp act, parliament also voted that 
thej had a right to tax America whenever they should think it ex- 
pedient. This, of course, was an adherence to the general principle 
against which the colonists had been all along contending. 

7. Well had it been, no doubt, for the mother country had she 
stopped here ; and though the right to tax America had been asserted, 
refrained from any other oftensive or oppressive acts. But Providence 
had not designed — so it would seem — that the colonies should always 
remain the subjects of a monarch three thousand miles distant ; and 
the hour of separation was rapidly approaching. 



CHAPTEE LXXIX. 
George III. — More Taxation. — Petitions^ Circulars., Re- 
monstrances. — The British Custom- House Oncers Moh- 
hed in Boston. 

1. On the 29th of June, 1767, the king, George III.* signed another 
act, which involved the principle of taxation without representation, 
and as applied, in its worst features. It required a duty, to be paid by 
the colonists, on all paper, glass, paiaters' colors, aud tea, which were 
imported into the country. 

2. The people of America did not hesitate to pronounce this act as 
unjust as the sugar and stamp act had been. It was not that they were 
too poor to pay a small tax on such articles as these, but if the crown 
could tax them without their consent in one way, it could in another; 
and where was the matter to end ? 

3. The British, it is true, reasoned otherwise. Their finances, they 
said, were exhausted by a war for the support of the colonies, and 
which had cost them nearly four hundred millions of dollars. It was^ 
therefore, not only right that the Americans should contribute toward 
paying its expenses, but extremely ungrateful for them to refuse. They 
had taxed themselves severely on cider, ale, beer, porter, tea, sugar, cof- 
fee, molasses, etc., and why could not the colonies pay something also ? 

4. And as to taxation without representation, the British said that 
the colonies had taxed themselves, most heavily, and without being rep- 
resented m parliament. They were not represented when Massachu- 

6. What was still to be lamented? 

Chap. LXXIX.— 1. What was done in 17(57 ? What of George III. as to his reign, age, 
«-tc. ? 2. What of the people of America ? 3, 4. W hat was urged by the British ? 

* George III came to the throne of Great Britain in 1760, and died in 1S20, aged eighty- 
xwo. For seven years before his death he was insane, and his son, afterward George IV . 
was regent 



MORE TAXATION. 173 

setts i^aid two millions of dollars for the support of one French war, 
and furnished twenty thousand to thirty thousand troops ; why did 
they not complain then? This reasoning, however, did not satisfy tlie 
colonists. 

5. But the tax on paper, glass, tea, etc., was not alone. A law was 
passed which obliged the several American legislatures to provide 
quarters for the British troops, and furnish them with fuel, lodging, 
candles, and other necessaries, at the expense of the colonies. This act 
was little less odious than the former. 

6. New York, it is true, so far yielded as to make partial provision 
for the troops about to be quartered there. The assembly, at the re- 
quest of the governor, voted to furnish barracks, fire-wood, candles, 
and beds; but not salt, vinegar, cider, and beer, as the law demanded. 
They, however, finally furnished the whole. 

7. Still more than all this : an act passed the parliament, establish- 
ing a custom-house and board of commissioners in America. The 
duties were to commence November 20 ; and early in that month three 
of the commissioners arrived at Boston. The colonists, believing tliis 
board was created to enforce payment of the new duties, were more 
inflamed than ever. 

8. Beside, the duties collected were to be applied in paying the 
salaries of governors, judges, and other ofiicers ; and it was easy to 
see that if they were paid in this way, rather than by the general 
assembly, they would not be so likely to regard the interest of tlie 
people whom they served, and would be more apt to be the mere tools 
of the king and parliament. 

9. The consequences were, resolves, petitions, and remonstrances 
from all parts of the country. In 1768, the legislature of Massachu- 
setts voted a humble petition to the king on the subject. This was 
followed by a circular letter to the representatives and burgesses of the 
other colonies, requesting them to unite in some suitable measures for 
obtaining a redress of their grievances. 

10. This circular and the petition to the king, by Massachusetts, 
gave great ofiience to the British administration, and they demanded 
of the colonies that they should retrace the steps they had taken, and 
crush in the bud the rising propensity among them to act in concert. 
To this end, they, in their turn, sent a circular to the colonies. But ;il] 
to no purpose. 

11. The merchants and traders of Boston now entered into a com- 
pact, by which they agreed not to import, for one year, any kind of 

5. What other law was passed? 6 What of New York ? The assembly? 7 What act was 
passed by Parliament? What effect was produced on the colonies? 8 What of the da 
ties collected? 9. What was done in 1768? 10 What did the British parliament demand ? 
15* 



171 



HISTORY OF THE UNITEK STATES 



goods or iiierchaiidise from Great Britain, except a few articles which 
tliey specified ; nor to purcliase British articles of the same kind from 
other colonies or nations which had procured them from England. 

12. But there was trouble springing up of another kind. The gov- 
ernment laws of trade had been hitherto greatly eluded, but the board 
of commissioners now determined tliey should be executed. A sloop, 
laden with wine, from Madeira [ma-dee' -ra], came into port. During 
the night, all the wine, except a few pipes, was unladen by government 
officers, and put into the public stores. The vessel was also seized, and 
put under a guard. 

13. These acts roused the indignation of the Bostonians more than 
ever. A mob collected and proceeded to the houses of the collector 
and comptroller of customs, broke the windows, dragged the collector's 
boat through the streets, and finally burned it on the common ; and 
some of the custom-house ofiicers narrowly escaped with their lives. 



CHAPTER LXXX. 

British Troojjs in Boston. — Great Excitement among the 
Colonists. — Projposal of the British Parliament to send 
Americans to England for trial. — Resolutions of North 
Carolina and Yirginia. 

1. The existing excitement was much heightened by the arrival in 

the harbor, a few 
days afterwards, 
of two regiments 
of British troops, 
sent to assist the 
governor and the 
other civil magis- 
trates of Boston, 
in preserving 
peace, and to aid 
' the custom-house 
ofiicers in per- 
forming their 
duty. What ad^ 
ded still more to 
the public indig- 




BRITISH TROOPS IN BOSTON. 



11. What did the iiiorchants and traders of Boston now do? 12. What other trouble was 
there? What^j)}' the .sloop laden with wine? 13. What was done by the mob in Boston? 
v'HAP. LXXX.— 1. What of the British troops ? 



INDIGNATIOxX IN THE COLONIES. 1V5 

nation was the fact that the troops marched through the cit}^ to the 
common, with muskets charged and with fixed bayonets, 

2. The selectmen of the town at first refused to give the soldiers any 
quarters, though they finally consented to admit one regiment of them 
into Faneuil Hall. The next day, as if in direct defiance of the pubHc 
feeling, the governor opened the state-house to them, and they not 
only occupied it, but stationed a guard with two field-pieces in front 
of it. 

o. This was new to the Bostonians. It was quite as much as they 
could bear to have a royal governor and foreign collectors of customs 
among them ; but to have the king's soldiers and cannon about the 
state-house, and fill the streets, even on Sunday, with the noise of 
drums and fifes, was more than their independent spirits could calmly 
endure. 

4. It was not, however, till the beginning of the year 1Y69 that an 
universal indignation was roused throughout the colonies. The feeling 
of opposition had hitherto been somewhat local, but the spirit of re- 
sistance had now extended to every part of the country. 

5. The British parliament, in February, 1769, had requested the king 
to give orders to the governor of Massachusetts to take notice of such 
persons, in his province, as might be guilty of treason, and have them 
sent to England to be tried. These orders were, doubtless, to have 
been extended afterward to the governors of the other colonies. 

6. No measure cou-ld have been adopted by the parent country, more 
likely to alienate the feelings of her American subjects than tliis. To 
be liable to be torn from their ow^n land to be tried by a jury of 
strangers, was as repugnant to their feelings as it was to the spirit of 
the British constitution. 

7. The house of burgesses of Virginia, and the general assembly of 
North Carolina, having met a few days after the arrival of this odious 
intelligence, passed a series of resolutions, which greatly oflended their 
governors — who, like the governor of Massachusetts, were royal 
favorites — and they forthwith broke up their deliberations. But it 
was too late to silence the people, and especially the representatives of 
the people in general assembly. 

8. Affairs proceeded no better in Massachusetts. When their legis- 
lature met, in May, they refused to transact business as long as the 
State-house was surrounded by an armed force. As the governor was 
unwilling to remove the troops, they adjourned to Cambridge, where. 



2. What of the selectmen ? The governor? 8. What was the effect of these move, 
ments upon the Bostonians ? 4. What was the feeling in 1769? 5. What of the British 
parliament in February, 1769? 6. How were the Americans affected by this measuix^ 7 
7 What of Virginia and North Carolina? S.Massachusetts? 



176 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

after passing some resolutions which were offensive to the governor, 
they were dismissed by him, and sent home, as their southern brethren 
had been. 



CHAPTER LXXXL 

Repeal of ohnoxioas Duties. — The Boston Massacre. 

1. DuEiNG the session of the British parliament in the spring of 
1T70, an act was passed for repealing all the duties which caused sg 
much complaint, except that on tea. This was continued, to show 
that they had not yielded the right to impose taxes, if they chose to 
exercise it. As might Ijave been expected, however, the colonists were 
still dissatisfied. 

2. The British troops remained in Boston, and seemed determined 
to remain there, notwithstanding the known disgust of the citizens at 
the idea of having a foreign force stationed among them. There was, 
it is true, for some time, no open quarrel, but the citizens and soldiers 
were continually insulting each other. 

3. Things could not long remain thus. On the 2d of March, ITTO, 
as a soldier was going by the shop of a rope-maker, he was attacked 
and severely beaten. He ran off, but soon returned with a number of 
his comrades, and attacked and beat some of the rope-makers. 

4. The people were now excited to the highest pitch. Between 
seven and eight o'clock in the evening of March 5, a mob collected, 
armed with clubs, and proceeded toward King-street, now State-street, 
crying, "Let us drive out these rascals — they have no business here — 
drive them out! Drive out the rascals!" Meanwhile, there was a cry 
that the town had been set on fire. 

5. The bells rang, and the throng became still greater, and more 
tunniltuous. They rushed furiously to the custom-house, and seeing 
an English sentinel there, shouted, " Kill him ! kill him !"— at the same 
time attacking him with pieces of ice and w-hatever they could find. 
The sentinel called for the rest of the guard, and a few of them came 
forward. 

6. The guard now marched out with their guns loaded. They met a 
great crowd of people, led on by a gigantic negro, named Attucks. They 
brandished their clubs and pelted the soldiers with snowballs, abusing 
them with harsh words, shouting in their faces, and even challenging 



Chap. LXXXI.-l What act was passed in 1770? 2. What of the British troops? 
8. What toolc place in March, 1770? 4. What of a mob on March 5? 5-8. Describe tiio 
fight between the people and tlse suldiers. 



THE BOSTON MASSACRE. 177 

them to tire. They even rushed close upon the very points of theii* 
bayonets. 

7. The soldiers stood awhile like statues, the bells rino^ing and the 
mob pressing upon them. At last, Attucks, with twelve of his men, 
began to strike upon their muskets with clubs, and to cry out to the 
mob, "Don't be afraid — they dare not tire — the miserable cowards — 
kill the rascals — crush them underfoot!" 

8. Attucks now lifted his arm against the captain of the guard, and 
seized hold of a bayonet. "They dare not fire!" shouted the mob 
again. At this instant the firing began. Attucks dropped dead im- 
mediately. The soldiers fired twice more, and two others were killed 
and others still wounded. The mob dispersed, but soon returned to 
carry otf the bodies. 

9. The whole town was now in an uproar. Thousands of men, 
women, and children rushed through the streets. The sound of drums, 
and cries of "To arms! to arms!" were heard from all quarters. The 
soldiers who had fired on the people were arrested, and the governor 
at last persuaded the mob to disperse and go quietly to their homes. 

10. The next morning, the troops in the city were ordered off to 
Castle William, one of the city fortifications. On the 8th of March, 
the three slain citizens were buried. The shops were all closed during 
the ceremony, and the bells in Boston and the adjoining towns were 
all the while tolling. An immense procession followed to the cjtiurch- 
yard. 

11. The soldiers were soon afterward tried. Two of them were 
condemned and imprisoned, and six of them were acquitted. John 
Adams and Josiah Quincy, eminent lawyers, pleaded their cause. The 
mob would have torn them in pieces if they could have had their own 
way, for mobs are seldom just or reasonable. 

12. There is no doubt that in most of these transactions the mob 
were in the wrong; the source of the mischief lay, however, in the 
fact that the British government insisted upon keeping an army among 
a people outraged by a series of unjust and irritating laws. This con- 
duct showed that the king and parliament of Great Britain intended 
to compel the colonists to submission by force of arms, and not to 
govern them by fair and proper legislation. 



9. What was the state of the town ? What of the governor? 10. What was done tbe 
next day? Describe the funeral. 11. What of the soldiers? Who pleaded for them ? 
12. Were the mobs in these affairs right or wrong? What was the real source of the diffi- 
culty? 
8* 



178 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES, 



CHAPTER LXXXII. 

Continuation of Difficulties. — The Regulators of North 
Carolina. — Burning of the Gasjjee. — Appointment of 
Committees of Correspondence. 

1. Foe a year or two, things went on somewhat better than before, 
though not by any means quietly. The merchants began again to buy 
English goods, except tea, which they would have nothing to do with. 
Associations were even formed in many parts of the country, the 
parties pledging themselves not to use it, 

2. The revenue officers continued to be despised, and, as much as 
possible, treated with contempt. In the year 1771, one of them, in 
Boston, had undertaken to seize a vessel for some violation of the law, 
when he was taken by the mob, stripped naked, carted through the 
city, and tarred and feathered. 

3. There was, the same year, an insurrection in North Carolina. A 
body of the inhabitants, to the number of fifteen hundred, under the 
name of Regulators^ rose against lavv^, order, and government, and 
against all lawyers and officers of government. Governor Try on 
marched against them, killed three hundred, and took some prisoners. 
A number of them were tried for high treason and executed. 

4. But one of the most startling events of this period took place at 
Khode Island, in the year 1772. The Gaspee, a British armed schooner? 
had been lying for some time at Providence, to sustain the laws re- 
specting trade. The Rhode Island people, many of them, hated her, 
and only waited for a favorable opportunity for giving vent to their 
indignation. 

5. Such an opportunity soon occurred. The Gaspee was accustomed 
to require the Providence vessels to take down their colors on their 
arrival, and to fire on them and chase them into port, if they refused. 
One day, as a packet was coming in with passengers, she refused to 
lower her colors ; upon which the Gaspee gave chase to her, and in the 
chase ran aground. 

6. This was just what the packet desired, and she had, in fact, 
manoeuvred for this purpose. On arriving at the city, a plan was laid 
to destroy the schooner. A volunteer company of soldiers was soon 
enlisted under Captain Wipple, and several boats, with armed men, 
prepared for the service. 

Chap. LXXXII.— 1. Wliat of the merchants in America? 2. What of the revenue 
officers? '6. What of the Regulators (tf North Carolina? 4, 5. Relate what took vhuie 
between tlie Ga^peo and th • packet. 6. Wliat \>\m was laid? 



BURN TNG OF THE GASPEE, 



179 



7. About two o'clock, the next morning, the party found means to get- 
on board the Gaspee. After sending the lieutenant, with his more valu- 
able effects, together with the crew, onshore, they burned the schooner, 
with all her stores. The nuutenant, in a conflict, while they were board- 
ing the Gaspee, was wounded, but no one was otherwise injured. 

8. Great pains were taken by the officers of the British government 
to discover and punish these offenders against the royal authority. 
Among other measures, a reward of five hundred pounds sterling was 
offered. Commissioners were also appointed to hear and try the cause. 
No discovery, however, was made. 

9. At a town-meeting in Boston, this year, a Committee was ap- 
pointed to lay before the several towns in the provinces, as well as 
before the world, the views of the people respecting their own rights 
in relation to the parent country. Virginia came into the measure in 
the year 1773, and recommended the plan to the other colonies. Com- 
mittees of Correspondence were appointed, which kept up an inter- 
change of opinions between the colonies, and laid tlie basis of their 
final union. 



CHAPTER LXXXIII. 

The Tea thrown Overhoai'd. 
1. A BILL was passed by the British parliament. 



in 1773, allowing 
the East India 
Company to ex- 
port their teas to 
America without 
the duties paid 
in England. As 
this would make 
tea actually 
cheaper in Ame- 
rica than inGreat 
Britain, it was 
thought that the 
colonies would 
willingly pay the 
small duty tlius 
THROWING OVER THE TEA. demanded of 

them, it being only three pence, or six cents a pound. 

7. What success had the assailants? 8 What was done by the British government? 
9. What took place in Boston ? Virginia ? What of Committees of Cornsspondence ? 
Chap. LXXXIII.— 1. What was done by the parliament in 1773? 




ISO HISTORY OP THE UNITED STATES. 

2. Large ships were accordingly loaded with tea, and sent out to 
America. When they arrived, however, not a man could be found to 
receive the tea, or have any thing to do with it. A few chests, which 
some individual had brought to Philadelphia, were let down very 
quietly into the sea by a band of persons who went slyly on J^oard for 
that purpose. 

3. The East India Company, confident of finding a marK:et for their 
tea, reduced as it now was in its price, freighted several ships with it 
to the colonies, and appointed agents for its disposal. Some cargoes 
were sent to New York, some to Philadelphia, some to Charleston, 
South Carolina, and three to Boston. 

4. The inhabitants of New York and Philadelphia sent the tea which 
came to them back to London. The people of Charleston unloaded 
theirs, and stored it in damp cellars, where it was soon spoiled. The 
Bostonians tried to send theirs back to London, but could not succeed. 
They would not, however, suffer it to be landed. 

5. As a last resort, a town-meeting was summoned, and it was 
agreed to call on the governor and make a formal request to him that 
the ships might be sent off. But the governor paid no attention to the 
request. This produced a great uproar, and a man in the gallery, 
dressed like an Indian, shouted the cry of War ! upon which the meet- 
ing was instantly dissolved. 

6. The multitude then rushed toward the wharf where the tea ves- 
sels lay. Here were seventeen sea captains, carpenters, etc., dressed 
and painted like Indians. It was now night, and in the darkness they 
went on board the three vessels, and in less than two hours three 
hundred and forty chests were staved and emptied into the sea. When 
this was done, the crowd dispersed quietly to their homes. 

7. An account of these disturbances reached England early in lYH, 
but it only incensed the government so much the more against the 
colonies, and made them so much the more resolute in th^ determina- 
tion to punish them for their insolence. Boston was the first to feel 
their vengeance ; and, in order to destroy the trade of that town, they 
forbade the landing of any goods iu it ; thus virtually placing it in a 
state of blockade. 

8. This last act of parliament was called the Boston Port Bill. It 
took effect June 1st. Its passage was a most unpropitious event. Not 
only in Boston, but throughout the country, there was a general burst 
of indignation. Town-meetings were held and fasts appointed; and a 

2. Give an account of the reception of the tea in America. 3. What of the East India 
Company? 4- What was done with the tea by the different towns ? 5. What of a town- 
meeting in Boston ? 6. What was done by certain persons in dissnise? 7. What was 
done by the British government? S. What of the Boston port bill? The League and 
Covenant 



MEETING OF THE FIRST CONGRESS. 181 

'■^League and Covenant^'''' as it was called, not to trade any more with 
England, was signed by immense numbers of the citizens. 

9. General Gage, who had, in the spring of the year, been appointed 
governor of Massachusetts, issued his proclamation against the league, 
declaring it to be treasonable; but the Bostonians only said, in reply, 
that his proclamation was treason, and that all who refused to sign the 
league were enemies to their country. 



CHAPTER LXXXIY. 

The first Congress ineet at Philadelphia in 1774. 

1. When the legislature of Massachusetts m.et at Salem, in June of 
this year, 1774, a meeting of committees, or delegates, from the 
several colonies was proposed, and delegates on the part of Massachu- 
setts were selected. The other colonies fell in with the measure, and 
it was gradually adopted, and delegates appointed from New Hampshire 
to Georgia. 

2. This meeting of delegates, or First General Congress of the colo- 
nies, was opened September 4, 1774, at Philadelphia. Committees, or 
delegates, were present from eleven of the colonies. Those from North 
Carolina did not arrive till the 14th. They chose Peyton Randolph 
president, and Charles Thompson secretary. They also determined 
that, in their proceedings, each colony should be entitled to one vote 
only. 

3. The proceedings of this Congress were distinguished for great 
boldness, decision, and determination. A Declaration of Rights was 
soon agreed upon. It was also resolved that no goods should be carried 
to Great Britain, nor any received from that country. They further 
agreed to send a Petition to the king, an Address to the British people, 
and a Memorial to the inhabitants of Canada. 

4. The congress was in session eight weeks. Before it was dis- 
solved, another congress was proposed to be held at the same place on 
the 10th of the following May, ''unless a redress of their grievances 
should be previously obtained;" to which meeting, or congress, all the 
colonies were advised to appoint delegates as soon as possible. 



9. What of Governor Gage ? 

Chap. LXXXIV.— 1. What wag done at Salem? "What measure was adopted? 2. 
What was done in September, 1774? From how many colonies were delegates present 
at this first General Congress? 3. What can you say of the proceedings of this con- 
gress? 4. How long was this congress in session ? What was proposed ? 
16 



18/} HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

5. Concerning the proceedings of the first congress of the united 
colonies, which have heen alhuled to, we have the testimony of Mr. 
Pitt himself, the British minister, who had read their memorial, ad- 
dress, and petition, and who would not be apt to speak too highly of 
their character. ' It is as follows : 

6. " I mnst declare and avow that in all my reading and study — 
and it has been my favorite study — I have read Thucydides and have 
studied and admired the master states of the world — that for solidity 
of reasoning, force of sagacity, and wisdom of conclusion, under such 
complication of circumstances, no nation or body of men can stand in 
preference to the General Congress at Philadelphia." 



CHAPTEK LXXXY. 

The rising Spirit of Liherty. — The Boston Boys. — General 

Gage. 

1. While the king's troops remained in Boston, it was curious to 
watch the influence of their presence on the young. The boys of the 
city soon caught the spirit of opposition which burned in the bosoms 
of their fathers, as will appear in the following anecdote : 

2. The boys of Boston were, in the w^inter, in the habit of building, 
for amusement, little hills of snow, and sliding them into the pond on 
the common. The English soldiers, merely to provoke them, beat down 
these snow hills. The boys rebuilt them. On returning to them after 
school, however, they found them beaten down again. 

3. Several of the boys now waited upon the British captain and in- 
formed him of the conduct of his soldiers. But the captain only made 
light of it ; the soldiers perceiving this, became more troublesome to 
the boys than they were before. 

4. At last they called a meeting of the largest boys, and sent them 
to General Gage, the commander-in-chief. He asked why so many 
children had called upon him. "We come, sir," said the tallest boy, 
"to demand satisfaction." "What!" said the general, "have your 
fathers been teaching you rebellion, and sent you to exhibit it here?" 

5. "Nobody sent us, sir," answered the boy, while his cheek red- 
dened and his eye flashed. " We have never injured or insulted your 
troops ; but they have trodden down our snow hills, and broken the 
ice on our skating-ground. We complained, and they called us young 



5, 6. What was Pitt's opinion of the first consress held at Philadelphia? 
Chap. LXXXV.— 1. Were the boys of Hoston influenced by the feelings of their 
fathers? 2-G. Relate the anecdote of the boys and the English soldiers. 



PREPAIiATlONS FOR WAR. 



183 



rebels, and told us to help ourselves if we could. We told the captain 
of this, and he laughed at us. Yesterday our works were destroyed 
the third time, and we will bear it no longer." 

6. General Gage looked at them a moment in silent admiration, and 
then said to an officer at his side, "The very children here draw in a love 
of liberty with the air they breathe. You may go, my brave boys ; 
and be assured, if my troops trouble you again, they shall be punished." 



CHAPTEE LXXXYI. 

Period of the Eevolutionary Wak. — Prejparations for 
War. — The Massachusetts Provincial Congress. — Sim- 
ilar Assemblies in other Colonies. — Dr. Franklin re- 
moved from the office of Postmaster- General. 

1. That period in our history which is called the America7i Revolu- 
tion^ is generally regarded as 
beginning with the Battle of 
Lexington, in which, for the 
first time, the people openly 
met and resisted the British 
troops. This occurred in 
April, 1775, and the war thus 
begun was not finally termi- 
nated till the peace of Septem- 
ber, 1783. During this long 
period of more than eight 
years, the colonies were com- 
pelled to suffer all the trials 
and miseries inflicted by a 
bloody contest with Great 
Britain, the mother country, 
now become as vindictive as 
she was powerful. We shall 
find this portion of our his- 
tory full of the most remark- 
able and interesting events. 

2. The symptoms of rebel- 
lion became so apparent in the 




BRITISH GENERAL. 



Chap. LXXXVI.— 1. "What is generally regarded as the beginning of the American Ecv- 
olution ? When did the battle of Lexington take place ? How long did the Eevolutiomiry 
was continue ? What shall we find the history of the Revolutionary war to be ? 



184 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

progress of the year 1774, that Governor Gage began to fortify Bos- 
ton Neck, as the narrow portion of land which unites Boston witli 
Eoxbury and the back country,- was then called. This being done, he 
sent out troops, and seized upon the powder magazine at Charlestown, 

3. These measures produced much excitement in Boston ; tp add to 
which, some evil-minded person raised a report that the British vessels 
in the harbor had begun to fire upon the toAvn. Such an uproar ex- 
isted, in and about Boston, that, in a few hours, from twenty to thirty 
thousand men were on their march to the city. Finding their mistake, 
however, they went home again. 

4. But the public excitement was not confined to the immediate 
neighborhood of Boston. In Portsmouth, New Hampshire, the col- 
onists seized upon the fort, though garrisoned with British troopn, dzid 
carried off every gun and every pound of powder. The people of New- 
port, Rhode Island, also took possession of forty pieces of cannon in 
the same way. 

5. As Governor Gage had been unfriendly to the measures of the 
colonial assembly, it was determined by the colonists that the legisla- 
ture should meet in Concord. The meeting was resolved into a Pro- 
vincial Congress, and John Hancock was chosen its president. Here 
measures were taken for arming the whole province ; twelve thousand 
men were to be raised, and to hold themselves ready to march at a 
moment's warning. 

6. A request was also forwarded by this assembly to Connecticut, 
New Hampshire, and Rhode Island, to urge their co-operation in the 
measures of the Massachusetts congress, and to increase the army of 
" minute men"" — that is, soldiers ready to march at a minute's notice — 
to twenty thousand. A committee was also appointed to correspond 
with the inhabitants of Canada. 

7. Another remarkable thing was done by the congress at Concord. 
A circular letter was addressed to the ministers of the gospel in the 
province, requesting their assistance in avoiding that " dreadful 
slavery," as they called it, with which, the country was threatened. 
What eflfect this letter had does not appear ; but it is well known that 
both the ministers and lawyers of the states were, almost to a man, 
among the friends of liberty. 

8. A Provincial Congress, which was held in Maryland, sustained, by 
its resolutions and measures, both the doings of the general congress 
at Philadelphia and those of the provincial congress at Concord. The 

2 What did Governor Gage do in 1774 as to fortifications? 8. What excitement was 
raised in Boston? 4. What can you say of the people in different places? 5. What wns 
now resolved? What of a provincial Congress? fi. What request was made by the as- 
sembly? 7. What letter was circulated? What is well known ? S. What of the provin- 
cial congress held in Maryland? 



THE BATTLE OF LEXINGTON. 



185 



same spirit was manitested by the resolutions and acts of some of tlin 
other provinces, .especially South Oorolina. 

9. It was at this juncture that Dr. Franklin was removed from tlie 
office of Postmaster-General of the British colonics of North Amenca.. 
The honest but decided course he had taken, both while residing in 
England and wdiile at home in Philadelphia, in behalf of his country, 
had offended the British government, and they were determined that 
he should feel the ettects of their displeasure. 



CHAPTEK LXXXYIL 

Period of the Kevolutionary War, Continued. — Battle 

of Lexington. 

\. L.'TTLE attention appears to have been paid by the British govern 

ment to the actual 
state of things in 
Boston and else- 
where. They 
thought the colon- 
ists wrong-headed 
and rebellious, and 
that they must be 
forced into obedi- 
ence. Mr. Pitt, in- 
deed, was wiser ; 
but his opinion was 
disregarded. They 
passed an act in 
February, 1775, de- 
claring the Massa- 
chusetts people to 

be rebels, and another to raise more troops and seamen for compelling 

them to submission. 

2. Meanwhile, the colonies were preparing for war. Among other 

mnnitions, they had a great amount of military stores in Boston, and 

wished to remove them to tlie country. To deceive the British guards, 

they carried out cannon and ball in carts covered with manure, powder 

in market-baskets, and cartridges in candle-boxes. 




BATTLE OF LEXINGTON. 



9. What of Dr. Franklin? 

Chap. LXXXVII.— 1. What ol" the British government? What was done in February. 

1775? 2. What were the colonies aww preparing to <lo? What military stores had they ? 
16^ 



1S6 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

3. Nor was Governor Gage wholly idle ; he made preparation, too. 
One day he sent his soldiers for some cannon he had heard of at 
Salem. As they were returning, the people had assembled and taken 
up a drawbridge, and would not let the soldiers pass ; and had it not 
been for the interposition of Mr. Bernard, a clergyman, a battle would 
probably have ensued. 

4. Late in the evening of April 18, Governor Gage* sent out eight 
hundred grenadiers and light infantry to destroy some military stores 
at Lex'-ing-tou and Con'-cord — some twelve or fourteen miles north- 
west of Boston. But, in spite of the lateness of the hour and the 
secrecy of their movements, they were discovered, and a part ot the 
militia of the country were on the green near the meeting-house in 
Lexmgton, by two o'clock in the morning, ready to defend the stores, 
it necessary. 

5. At five o'clock on the morning of the 19th, the British troops, 
with Major Pit-cairn' at their head, came inarching into Lexington. 
"Disperse, you rebels!" said Major Pitcairn, with an oath, to the 
militia; "throw down your arms, and disperse!" The order was not 
obeyed. He then rode toward them, discharged his pistol, brandished 
his sword, and ordered his men to fire. They fired, and three or four 
persons fell dead. 

6. The militia, upon this, began to disperse, but the firing did not 
cease. The British shouted and fired, while the Americans were re- 
treating ; and the latter stopped occasionally to return the fire. Sev- 
eral of the Americans were slain in their retreat, and several others 
wounded. The whole number of Americans killed was eight. 

7. The British now proceeded to Concord. There they destroyed 
two large cannon, threw about five hundred pounds of ball into wells, 
and staved sixty barrels of flour. The Concord militia had at first 
assembled with hostile intentions ; but finding the British too strong 
for them, they had retired. They were soon reinforced, however, by 
Major Buttrick, and ordered on to the attack. The British fired on 
them as they advanced, and killed two men. 

8. A severe battle ensued, in which the British were forced to re- 
treat with some loss. They now began to make the best of their way 
back to Boston, for the people were pouring in from all parts of the 

3. What of Governor Gage ? What passed between the soldiers and the people? 4. 
What did Governor Gage do in April ? Where are Lexington and Concord ? What of the 
militia .- fi, 6. Describe the meeting between Pitcairn and the militia How many 
Americans were killed? 7. What did the British now do? What happened at Concord? 
3. Describe the battle and retreat of the British. 

* Grai,'0 arrived in Boston in May, 1774, being both governor of Massachusetts, and 
ctinniander-in-chief of the British forces in North America. Ue returned to EnglancJ 
October, 1775, and the command of the army at Boston devolved upon General Howe 



BATTLE OF L E X I N G T O x\ . 187 

country toward Lexington and Concord. There were farmers and 
mechanics, fathers and sons, side by side, 

9. They came, it is true, with their own weapons — many of them 
such as they had been accustomed to shoot squirrels and other animals 
with, and rather rusty, but they were trained to the use of them. 
These they employed as well as they could, from behind barns, houses, 
sheds, stone walls, and trees ; and their shot did execution. 

10. When the British reached Lexington they met a reinforcement 
of nine hundred men from Boston. With this fresh aid, they were 
able to check the Americans for a short time, but not long. The road 
everywhere was beset by the patriots, and the British were falling, 
here and there, as they proceeded back to Charlestown, which they 
reached about sunset. 

11. The results of this enterprise, though no pitched battle had been 
fought, were very distressing to both parties, but especially to the 
British. They had sixty-five killed, one hundred and eighty wounded, 
and twenty-eight made prisoners. During the whole day, the Amer- 
icans had fifty killed, thirty-four wounded, and some four or five taken 
prisoners. 

12. This series of skirmishes, called the Battle of Lexington, was 
the signal of war. The news of the event flew from town to town, 
and everywhere aroused a spirit of resistance. The forts, magazines, 
and arsenals, throughout the country, were instantly secured by the 
colonists, that they might be ready for use should they become neces- 
sary. Twelve years of peace had not made them forget all the lessons 
they had learned in the art of war. Regular forces were soon raised, 
and money furnished for their support. 

13. An army of twenty thousand men was collected in the neigh- 
borhood of Boston in a very short time. One considerable body of 
them came from Connecticut, under Colonel Putnam, an experienced 
and valuable officer. These forces encamped around Boston in a semi- 
circle, as if to shut up the town on every side but the water. 



,9. What arms had the colonists? 10. "What of the British? 11. What was the loss to 
both parties? 12 What is the conflict called in history? What was now done by the 
colonists? 13. What army was collected ? Who came from Connecticut? What of the 
American forces? 



188 



HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 



CHAPTER LXXXVIII. 

Pekiod of the Riwolutionaky War, Continued. — Caj^ 
ture of TicondeToga and Crown Point. 

I. No sooner was it seen that a war with Great Britain was inevit- 
able, than the people of Con- 
necticut set on foot a plan for 
the capture of Crown Point 
and Ticonderoga, forts on the 
northern frontier which wt 
have had frequent occasion 
to mention. The necessity of 
such a measure was so obvious 
that there was little difficulty 
in raising both men and 
money ; and this, too, with 
almost absolute secrecy. 

2. Colonel Ethan Allen, a 
brave man, who had emigrated 
from Connecticut to the Green 
Mountains of Vermont a few 
years before, and was well 
known there, was appointed 
as the conductor of the enter- 
prise. As soon as forty men 
were raised in Connecticut, 
they were sent off to Colonel 
Allen. 

3. They met him at Castle- 
ton, where he had already collected two hundred and thirty men. 
Here they were unexpectedly joined by Benedict Arnold, who, some 
time afterward, made such a strange figure in American history. He 
had collected a company of volunteers in New Haven, and taken them 
on to Boston, where he had been commissioned to raise four hundred 
men in Vermont, or elsewhere, and proceed against Ticonderoga. 

4. Without waiting to raise more troops, they proceeded with their 
little band of two hundred and seventy to Ticonderoga, Allen being 
first in command, and Arnold second. They reached Lake Champlain, 




'^^^^i^ 



ETHAN ALLEN. 



Chap. LXXXVIII.— 1. What was done by the people of Connecticut? 2. What of 
Colonel Ethan Allen? 3. How many men were there at Castleton? What of Arnold? 



VERMONT ANL> ETHAN ALLEN. 189 

opposite Ticonderoga, May 9, They found some difficulty in obtain- 
ing boats. At length they procured enough of these to carry eighty- 
three men, who landed near the garrison, just at dawn of day, undis- 
covered. 

5. After a short contention wlio should go in first, the two colonels 
agreed to enter at the same time, abreast of each other. A sentinel 
snapped his gun at them as they entered, and then retreated to alarm 
his sleeping comrades. The American troops having followed their 
officers, they formed themselves into a hollow square and gave three 
huzzas. 

6. The garrison being now roused, a slight skirmish took place. The 
British commander was required to surrender the fort. " By what 
authority?" he asked. "I demand it," said Allen, "in the name of 
the Great Jehovah and the Continental Congress." The garrison was 
immediately given up, and with it forty-nine prisoners, one hundred 
and twenty cannon, and many valuable stores. Thus Allen and his 
enterprising companions, acting by no orders but their own, became 
complete masters of Lake Champlain. 

7. The fort at Crown Point was taken without difficulty, it being 
garrisoned by only thirteen men. A sloop of war and several pieces 
of cannon were also seized at the same time, together with a schooner 
fitted out for service on the lake. All this was accomplished too with- 
out the loss of a single man. 



CHAPTER LXXXIX. 

Period of the Pevolutionary War, Continued. — Fer- 

TRont and Ethcm Allen. 

1. Colonel Allen, though a brave man, was not always exemplary 
in his language. Like many other brave men, not only of the Ameri- 
can army, but of almost all armies, he had great defects of character. 
His declaration to the British officer, which we have just mentioned, 
savored strongly both of profanity and untruth. 

2. He had emigrated to Vermont, or the Green Mountains, as it 
was then called, while quite young. This part of New England did 
not begin to be settled till 1731, and, even for a long time after was 
considered as a part of New Hampshire. A contest at length arose 

4 How many men marched against Ticonderoga? What lake did they cross ? How 
many men went to the garrison? 5. How did the colonels enter? What did the troops 
do? 6. Describe the surrender of the garrison. 7. What of Crown Point? What were 
seized by the Americans ? 

Chap. LXXXIX.— 1. What can you say of Colonel Allen? 2. What of Vermont? What 
contest arose between New Hampshire and New York? 



190 HISTORY OV THE UNITED STATES. 

about it between New Hampshire and New York, as we have already 
stated, which was adjusted by the king in a way which greatly dis- 
pleased the settlers. 

3. The consequence was, that a quarrel took place between Vermont 
and New York, or, more properly, between Vermont and the crown, 
in which the Green Mountain Boys, headed by Colonel Allen, resisted 
the officers of justice, as well as the New York militia, who were 
called out to sustain them. 

4. At the period of the capture of Ticonderoga, and even somewhat 
later, Vermont had not so much as even a territorial form of govern- 
ment. In 1777, however, a convention of delegates met at Westmin- 
ster, and declared themselves an independent state, by the name of New 
Connecticut, though it was afterward changed to Vermont. They re- 
mained independent till some time after the end of the revolutionary 
war, though they did good service in the cause of independence. 

5. Allen w^as employed for a time, after the capture of Ticonderoga, 
in Canada, in trying to persuade the people of that province to join 
the colonies. Failing in this, he formed a plan, in the fall of 1775, 
in concert with Colonel J^rown, to take Montreal, but was himself 
taken prisoner, put in irons, and sent to England. 

6. On the passage, both he and his companions experienced the 
most cruel treatment. They were all, to the number or tnlrty-four, 
handcuifed and crowded into a small place in the vessel, not more than 
twenty-two feet long and twenty wide. After an imprisonment of six 
months, in England and Ilal'-i-fax, he was sent to a prison-ship in New 
York. He remained a prisoner there about a year and a half. 

7. Allen, though very daring and eccentric, was a man of humane 
and tender feelings. While being carried from Halifax to New York, 
a plan was laid by one of the American prisoners to kill the captain, 
but when it was proposed to him, he refused to join in it. In an- 
other instance, the British, knowing him to be a man of great energy, 
attempted to bribe him to unite Vermont, an independent colony, 
w^ith Canada. But money could not buy him. 

8. And yet it must be confessed that he was an open unbeliever in 
Christianity. He not only published the first formal attack on the 
Christian religion which was ever written in America, but he adopted 
the notion that the soul of man, after death, would live again in beasts, 
birds, fishes, etc., with many other notions still more singular. 

9. It is said that though his wife was a pious woman, and taught 

3. What quarrel arose between Vermont and New York ? What of the Green Moun- 
tain Boys? 4. What can you say of Vermont? What was it first called? 5. How was 
Allen employed for a time? What plan did he form in 1775? 6. How were he and his 
companions treated? What afterward happened to Allen? 7. W^hat can you say in 
proof of Allen's kindness and integrity ? 8. What was his religious belief? 



BATTLE OP BUNKER'S HILL. 



191 



her children the truths ot Christianity, one daughter inclined to the 
same strange opinions with her father. When about to die, she sent 
word to her father that she wished to converse with him. The father 
accordingly came to her bedside. 

10. "I am about to die," said she ; " shall I believe in the principles 
you have taught me-, or shall I believe in what my mother has taught 
me V The father became agitated, his chin quivered, his whole frame 
shook, and, after waiting a few moments, he replied, "Believe what 
your mother has taught you!" Allen died suddenly in 1789. 



CHAPTER XC. 

Period of the Revolutionary War, Continued. — battle 
of Bmike7'^s Hill. 

i. We have seen that soon after tlie battle of Lexington and Con- 

^ . cord, Boston was, 

'xtl \ ; "^i^ ^T^^ as it were, invested 

' "^ . — ^ with American 

troops. Their num- 
ber, at one time, is 
said to have been 
about thirty thou- 
sand. Their prin- 
cipal head-quarters 
were at Cambridge 
and Roxbury. Col- 
onel Putnam com- 
manded at the for- 
mer place, and Gen- 
eral Tliomas at the 
latter, 
2. Some time in 
May, Howe, Clinton, and Bur-goyne', three British generals, arrived in 
Boston, with a reinforcement of British troops. Governor Gage now 
offered a pardon to all the rebels, as he still called them, except John 
Hancock and Samuel Adams, who had been very active in rousing 
the people to resistance, if they would lay down their arms and be 
peaceable subjects. But as no attention was paid to the oifer, he ac- 
tively prepared for war. 

9, 10. Relate what passed between Allen and his daughter. When did he die? 
Chap. XC— 1. What of the American troops after the buttle of Lexington ? 2. What 
wa? ''one in May, ^775? What of Governor or General Gage? 




BATTLE OP bunker's HILL. DKATH OF WARREN. 



"192 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES, 




PLAN OP THE BATTLE OP BUNKER S HILL. 



3. There now began to be skirmishing between the two armies 
nhiiost every day. The Americans concluded at length to fortify Dor'- 
ches-ter Neck, now South Boston, and occupy Bun'-ker's Hill, in 
Charlestown. In order to effect the latter purpose, Colonel Pres'-cott 
w^T-s sent, on the IGth of June, to Charlestown, with one thousand 



8. What did the Americans conclude to do? What of Colonel Prescott? 
E^™ The teacher vn' I put such queMions here, as he deems vece'^sary, and explain 
to the pupil, that the ohelisk in the evgraving represents the Bunkkr Hill Monument, 

LATELY REAEEU OX THE SITE OF THE BATTLK. 



BATTLE OF BUNKER'S HILL. 193 

men. He left Cambridge with his troops about nine o'clock in the 
evening. 

4. His movements were so silent that the British did not discover 
him. He, however, mistook Breed's Hill for Bunker's Hill,''' and, with 
his troops, ascended and began to fortify it. At daybreak, on the 
morning of the 17th, they had thrown up an embankment, or redoubt, 
about eight rods square and four feet high, on a spot which overlooked 
and, as it were, commanded nearly the whole of Boston. 

5. As soon as day dawned, the British saw what was going on, and 
began to fire on them, both from their batteries in the town and from 
their vessels. They also established and put in operation a formidable 
battery on Copp's Hill, on the northern part of the town, which threw 
in among the Americans showers of bomb-shells. 

6. But all their ships and batteries combined did not batter down 
the works of the Americans. They even labored all the forenoon in 
the midst of the shot and the bomb-shells, and by noon had completed 
a breastwork from the redoubt to the bottom of the hill toward Mystic 
River, and, strange to relate, had lost all this while but a single 
man! 

7. Finding he could not dislodge the Americans in this- way. Gov- 
ernor Gage, about noon, sent over some of his best troops, \inder Gen- 
erals Howe and Pigot, to drive them from the hill. Having landed, 
they waited for a reinforcement, and to mature their plan : for they 
were not wholly without fears that the Americans might be a little 
too strong for them. At length, they had collected together about 
three thousand men. 

8. The Americans, in the mean time, were also reinforced by a body 
of troops, and by Generals Warren, Pomeroy, and Putnam. The latter, 
who had just been made a brigadier-general, was commander-in-chief 
for the day. The Americans now amounted to about fifteen hundred, 
though most of them were only armed with muskets without bayonets. 

9. At three o'clock in the afternoon, the British began to ascend the 
hill, in face of the Americans. The Oharlestown militia opposed them 
at first, but soon retreated. The British now set fire to Oharlestown, 
containing from four to five hundred wooden buildings. As the wind 
was high, the fire raged terribly ; and the sight, though fearful, was 
sublime. 

4. What did he do? What mistake was made? How large was the redoubt erected 
by the Amsrieans ? 5. What was done by the British ? C. What did the Americans 
do in the mean time ? 7. What steps were now taken by Governor Gage ? 8. What 
was the number and condition of the American forces? 9. What was the first move- 
ment of the British in the attack? 

* What was called Breed's Hill, and is thus named in the plan at p. 192, is now called 
BimJcer'' s HiU, andi the battle is historically known as the '■'■ Battle of Bunkers miV 
17 



J 94 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

10. The British went slowlj up the hill. It was a perilous hour. 
Thousands of people, on the tops of the steeples and houses in Boston, 
as well as on the hills round about, waited, in breathless silence, to 
know the result. A battle there must be, as every one foresaw, prob- 
ably a bloody one ; and the fate of the country depended, perhaps, on 
its issue. 

11. But the British were now near the redoubt, and the Americans 
only withheld their fire in compliance with the orders of General 
Putnam. "Do not fire a gun," said he, "till you can see the whites 
of their eyes." But even the strict letter of this command did not 
require long delay. Such a tremendous volley was at last poured upon 
the invaders in an instant, as thinned their ranks and compelled them 
to retreat. 

12. They soon rallied, however, and came on as before, but were re- 
pulsed a second time with great loss, and fled down the hill. The 
green field was covered with dead bodies. General Howe had not an 
ofiicer left him on the field. General Clinton now came over from 
Copp's Hill, with new troops, and the battle was renewed with more 
spirit than ever. 

13. At this critical moment, the pow^der of the Americans failed 
them, and they began to retreat, fighting with their muskets, using 
them as clubs. They moved westward as far as Prospect Hill, 
where they began to throw up new works. The British, however, 
were not disposed to pursue them — nor had the Americans the power 
to drive them from Bunker's Hill. 

14. In this hard-fought battle, the British had two hundred and 
twenty-six killed, and eight hundred and twenty-eight wounded. Of 
the Americans one hundred and thirty-nine were killed, and three 
hundred and fourteen wounded and missing. Among the slain, of the 
Americans, was General Joseph Warren ; among the British, Major 
Pitcairn, who had made himself so notorious at Lexington. 

15. The death of General Warren was deeply lamented by the 
Americans. He was a physician, and greatly beloved both in his pro- 
fession and in private life. He had received the commission of major- 
general just three days before the battle, and was only thirty-five years 
of age. He went into this battle as a mere volunteer. He was killed 
almost instantly by a ball in the head, on or near the spot where 
Bunker Hill Monument nov,- stands. 

10. Describe their ascent up the hill. 11. What was their reception ? 12. What British 
general now joined in the attack? 13. What unfortunate occurrence compelled the 
Americans to retreat? 14. What was the loss of the British? Of the Americans ? IS 
What of General Warren ? 



GENERAL PUTNAM. 195 



CHAPTEE XCI. 

Period of the Revolutionary War, Continued. — Gen- 

eral Putnam. 

1. This is a proper place to say something more of the principal 
commander* of the armj of Bunker's Hill — General Put'-nam, after- 
ward Major-General Putnam. Till the French and Indian war broke 
out in 1754, he was a ftirmer in Connecticut, and nothing had occur- 
ved in his life worthy of much notice, except his adventure wiiJi a 
wolf, which is so familiar to every schoolboy that it need not be related 
A ere. 

2. Thronghoiit the whole of the French and Indian war, which lasted 
*»bout nine years, General Putnam was employed as an officer ; first as 
»» captain, afterward as a major, and still later as a colonel. No officer 
v^as more bold or skilful ; few were more successful or more beloved. 

3. In August, 1757, while stationed in the northern part of New 
York, he was engaged in a severe contest with the French and Indians, 
in which he was taken prisoner and tied to a tree. The battle went 
on, and, as it turned out, Putnam stood for some time in the hottest 
fire of both parties. Many balls lodged in the tree near him, and some 
pierced his clothes. 

4. But he was reserved for further trials. Even before he was 
loosed from this very tree, when the colonial troops had, in one in- 
stance, retreated a little way, a young Indian amused himself by throw- 
ing his tomahawk at the tree, apparently to see how near he could 
throw it without hitting Putnam. In several instances it came within 
a hair's breadth of bun. 

5. He was at length untied, but not till he had been cruelly treated 
by a French officer, who struck him heavily on the cheek. He was 
next deprived of his vest, stockings, and shoes, and his hands tied 
together, and then loaded with the packs of the wounded soldiers. 

6. The cords were tied so tightly round his wrists as to cause much 
swelling and great pain, and the blood flowed from his torn and naked 
feet, till his sufferings became so great that he begged the savages either 
to loosen the cord or kill him. A French officer removed a part of the 
burden, and an Indian gave him a pair of moccasins. 

Chap. XCI. — \. What can you say of General Putnam? "What war broke out in 1754? 
2. How long did this war last? IIow was General Putnam employed? 3. What hap- 
pened iu 1757 ? 4-6. Describe the trials to which he was exposed. 

* It would appear probable that there was no regularly appointed commander at Bun- 
ker's Hill, and it has been even said that Putnam was not there. But it has been made 
c! ^ar that he %va3 there, and no doubt gave directions to the American troops. 



196 HISTORV OF THE UNITED STATES. 

7. During the day, an Indian had also wounded him deeply in the 
cheek with a tomahawk. But the arrival of night brought greater 
trials than before. It was now the determination of the savages to 
roast him alive. He was bound to a tree, entirely naked, and thn; 
flames were kindled, and the Indians liad already begun their horrid 
dancing and singing around him. 

8. A sudden shower partly extinguished the flames, but they soon 
raged again. Already was he beginning to writhe in torture, and his 
case was becoming hopeless, when a young French officer, rushing 
through the throng, dashed away the firebrands, and though he was 
almost past feeling, liberated him from his sufferings. 

9. Suffice it to say that he was sent as a prisoner, first to Ticonde- 
roga, then a French post, and afterward to Montreal, where he was 
exchanged, upon which he immediately re-entered the army. He 
served under General Amherst, in the expedition to the West Indies, 
in 1762 ; was out in an expedition against the Western Indians, in 
1764 ; and after serving nearly ten years in the army, he returned to 
his plough. 

10. We heai' no more of him in public life, except that he wa8 
opposed to the stamp act, till the news of the battle of Lexington 
reached him. He was ploughing in his field ; but he left the plough 
standing in the furrow, and, without staying to change his clothes, 
rode to the scene of war. Subsequently to this he was, as will be 
seen, concerned in many of the most important battles of the Eevolu- 
tion. He died in May, 1790, aged seventy-two years. He was rough 
in speech and manner, but possessed sterling qualities of head and 
heai't. 



7 What plan had the Indians concerning him in the night? 8. How was he liberated? 
{}. What was then done with him? Where did he afterward serve ? 10. When do ws 
again hear of him? When did he die? 



WASHINGTON IN THE ARMY 



197 



CHAPTEK XCII. 



Period of the Revolutionary War, Continued. — The 
Second Continental Congress. — Washington at the head 
of the Army. 

1. The Second Continental Congress met, according to tlie provis 

ions of the first, 
at Philadelpliia, 
May 10, 17T5. 
At this meeting, 
twelve of the 
colonies were 
represented. 
Georgia, it 
seems, did n ot 
send in her dele- 
gates till some 
timeinJiilj. Mr. 
Eandolph was 
again chosen 
their president, 
2. At the open- 
ing of the con- 
gress, John Hancock presented the most ample and conclusive evi- 
dence that, in the battle of Lexington, the king's troops were the first 
aggressors. The delegates were united in the opinion that it was 
necessary to put the colonies in a state of defence, and, though they 
should continue to hope for the best, to make all possible preparation 
for the worst which could happen. 

3. For the purposes of defence, they voted to raise and equip an 
army of twenty thousand men, and to issue bills of credit to the 
amount of three millions of dollars, to pay the expenses — the twelve 
colonies being pledged for their redemption. They next proceeded 
to select George Washington, one of the delegates from Virginia, who 
was already favorably known, commander-in-chief of the army. 




GENERAL WASHINGTON. 



Chap. XCII.— 1. Where and when did the Second Continental Congress meet ? How 
mony colonies were i-epresented ? "Who was the president? 2. What was done by 
John Hancock? What was deemed necessary ? 8. What did they first proceed to do? 
To what station was Washinirton appointed? 
17* 



11>6 illSTURV OF THE UNITED STATES 

4. The following anecdote Avill serve to show, in a striking manher, 
tlie modesty of Washington. The elder President Adams, then a mem- 
ber of Congress from Massachusetts, was the person who first proposed 
to make the appointment. Though he does not appear to have called 
Washington by name at first, yet his allusions were so strong that no 
one could mistake his meaning, upon which Washington sprang from 
his seat, and retired to an adjoining room. 

5. One more fact, in this place, concerning him. Before his appoint- 
ment, five hundred dollars a month had been voted .to the chief com- 
mander of the army. After Washington's appointment, he most 
respectfully assured Congress that he did not wish to receive any profit 
from the office. "I will keep an account," said he, "of my expenses; 
these, I doubt not, they will discharge ; and that is all I desire." 

6. Four major-generals and eight brigadier-generals, to serve under 
Washington, were also appointed. The names of the first were Ar'- 
te-mas Ward, Charles Lee, Philip Schuy'-ler, and Israel Putnam. Those 
of the second were Seth Pomeroy, Eichard Montgomery, David Woos- 
ter, William Heath, Joseph Spencer, John Thomas, John Sullivan, and 
I^athaniel Greene. 

7. At this critical period in the history of the colonies, Congress 
appointed a general or national fast — the first of the kind ever kept in 
this country. The season, as it appears, was religiously observed. It 
was the 20th of July. 

8. The appointment of Washington, as commander-in-chief of the 
army, was made on the 15th of June. He received his commission 
four days afterward. In company with Generals Lee and Schuyler, he 
left Philadelphia for the north on the 21st of June, and, after a little 
delay in ISTew York — where he left General Schuyler — he arrived at 
Cambridge, near Boston, on the 2d of July. 



4. Tell the anecdote of Adams and Washington. 5. What more can you say of him? 
6. Tell the names of the generals and brigadier-generals chosen to serve under Washing- 
ton. I What fast did Congress appoint? 8. What can you say of Washington at this 
time? 



ATTACK ON QUEBEC. 



199 



CHAPTER XCIII. 

Pekiod of the Pevolutiunaky Wak, Continued. — At- 
tack on Quebec. — Death of Montcj ornery . — Oovernor 



'unmore 



*5 Operations in Virginia. 



D 

1. When Washington reached Cambridge, the British forces in Bos- 
ton amounted to eleven thou- 
sand five hundred. The Ame- 
rican forces were nominally 
about seventeen thousand ; 
though, exclusive of the sick 
and absent, really but fourteen 
thousand five hundred. As 
they were arranged, however, 
in a semicircle of abc)ut twelve 
miles in length, they were 
thought insufiicient for closely 
besieging the city. 

2. Washington, as soon as 
he had taken a survey of the 
whole ground, called a council 
of war. This council, with- 
out a dissenting voice, gave it 
as their opinion that the posts 
around Boston, though nume- 
rous, must be occupied and 
sustained ; and that, for this purpose, a force of at least twenty-two 
thousand men was necessary. They also recommended to the colonies 
of New England to make up the deficiency. 

3. One great difliculty which stared them in the face was the want 
of ammunition. Washington had found, to his surprise, that there was 
not powder enough in the whole American army to furnish nine cart- 
ridges to each man. This was a most alarming fact, and perplexed 
even the commander himself. 

4. While he was employed in organizing the army near Boston, so 
as to render it available. Generals Schuyler and Montgomery had taken 
Fort Cham-blee', in the north, and besieged St. John's. The latter was 
also at length taken, with six hundred prisoners and five hundred 




GENERAL MONTGOMERY. 



Chap. XCIII. — 1. What was the amount of the British forces ? Of the American ? 
2. What was proposed by the council of war of the Americans? 3. Wliat great difR- 
culty had the colonists to contend with ? 4. What was doing in other places? 5. What did 
General Montgomery do ? 



200 



HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 




DEATH OP MONTGOMERY. 



Stands of arms. It was during the siege of St. John's that Colonel 
xillen was taken prisoner, as we ha\e already stated. 

5. After the capture of St. John's, General Montgomery w^ent against 

Montreal, which 
surrendered with- 
out resistance. He 
next marched 
against Quebec ; 
but, in the mean 
time, Washington 
had dispatched 
General Benedict 
Arnold, vrith ele- 
ven hundred men, 
by way of the 
Kennebec River, 
seven hundred of 
whose troops had 
arrived late in the 
autumn, scaled 
the heights of Abraham, and placed themselves before the city. 

6. Arnold had, however, been so slow in his operations, after liis ar- 
rival in the river near the city, that the enemy was better prepared for 
a defence than had been expected. Beside, he had no artillery, and 
only six charges of powder to each man. In these circumstances, he 
was obliged to fall back twenty miles up the river with his troops, and 
wait the arrival of General Montgomery. 

7. He was joined by the latter and three hundred men, December 
1st, and they proceeded forthwith to the siege of Quebec. After con- 
tinuing the siege till December 31st, they made a desperate attempt to 
scale the walls, in which General Montgomery and several of his most 
valuable officers were slain, and General Arnold wounded. 

8. Being thus defeated in his purpose, Arnold ordered the army to 
retire about three miles, where they spent the winter. He had lost 
about one hundred men who were killed, and three hundred who were 
taken prisoners. In the spring, finding his force too small to accom- 
plish any important purpose, he left the country ; and the posts which 
had been taken in this quarter gradually returned into the hands of the 
British. 

9. The death of General Montgomery was deeply lamented, both in 



What of the expedition against Quebec, led by General Arnold? 6. What did Am; 
do nfter his aiTival? 7. What hnpponcd in the siege of Quebec? 8. "What tiiu ^ 
nold order ? What did he do in the sprini:? 



ARM OLD'S EXPEDITION TO QUEBEC. 



201 



Europe and America. He was born in Ireland, and was a most excel- 
lent officer and valuable citizen. He and his two aides-de-camp fell 
at the same instant. At his death Montgomery was only thirty-eight 
years of age. Congress caused a monument to be erected in New 
York to his memory, which may be seen in the churchyard near St. 
Paul's church, New York. 

10. There were some internal troubles about this time in Virginia. 
Lord Dun'-more, the governor, like most of the colonial governors, 
was unfriendly to the colonies. Fearing the colonial troops would seize 
the powder of the public magazines, he ordered it to be carried on 
board a vessel. He also undertook to arm and equip several vessels 
for the crown ; and, when the people would not furnish them with 
provisions, he proceeded to burn Norfolk, then a town of about six 
thousand inhabitants. 



CHAPTER XCIV. 

Pkkioi:) of the Revoltttici^ary War, Continued. — Anec- 
dotes and Incidents of Arnold's Expedition to Quebec. 

1. The project of taking an army across the District of Maine to 

Quebec, almost 
seventy years 
ago,was certain- 
ly one which 
few would have 
undertaken but 
Benedict Ar- 
nold. We shall 
learn something 
more of him 
hereafter. For 
the present it is 
only necessary 
to say that he 
was more rash 
than judicious, 
and that his 
strange though 




'•fmk^^- 



Arnold's expedition to Canada 



daring expedition to Quebec, proved him to be 



9. Give some account of Montgomery. 10. What of the troubles in Virginia? 
Chap. XCIV. — 1. What can you say of Arnold's project ? 
9* 



202 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

2. It is true that Washington approved the plan, and encouraged it ; 
but this does not show that it was not both rash and hazardous. 
Washington did not know what a rough and dangerous route it was, 
and depended for his information on others, who probably misunder- 
stood and misrepresented the facts. 

3. General Arnold set out in September. He had with him, as was 
stated in the preceding chapter, eleven hundred men. He had also a 
few volunteers beside, among whom was Aaron Burr, afterward vice- 
president of the United States, but then only twenty years of age. 
They went by water to the mouth of the Kennebec River, in the usual 
manner. 

4. There they procured two hundred batteaux. These were long, 
light flat-boats, for shallow water. The current of the river was rapid, 
the bottom rocky, and the navigation often interrupted by falls. Some- 
times they had to transport the baggage by land ; sometimes they were 
obliged to carry their boats on their shoulders, or drag them up the 
rapids with ropes. 

5. They had steep precipices to climb, vast shady forests to pass 
under, and quagmires to wade through. They had also deep valleys to 
traverse, wdiere the pine-trees were tossing over their heads in the 
stormy wind, and where the river was rushing and foaming over the 
rocks with a noise like that of the ocean. 

6. They were sometimes a whole day in travelling four or five miles, 
with their baggage lashed on their backs, and axes in their hands to 
hew a road through the wilderness. Some of them died at last from 
mere fatigue ; many others became sick and perished, and all suffered 
greatly for want of food. 

7. Many a young soldier, as he lay down at night on his pillow of 
green boughs, hungry and fatigued, and perhaps cold, too, for the 
frosty nights had come, thought of the parental home and fireside, 
where, perhaps, a mother and sister were weeping for him. But these 
thoughts were driven away by the next morning's march. 

8. By the time they reached the source of Dead River, a branch of 
the Kennebec, their pro\isions were almost exhausted; and what 
remained were damaged, as well as their ammunition, by water which 
had got into the batteaux during their passage. The soldiers, it is 
said, began to kill and eat the lean dogs they had with them ; and 
even this food was esteemed a luxury. 

9. The sick had now become so numerous that one of the colonels 
was ordered back with them to Boston. He not only obeyed the 

2. What Is true respecting Washington ? 3. What troops had Arnold ? 4. How did the 
troops proceed upon the water? 5-7. What difficulties had they by land? 8. What of 
their provisions ? 



HESSIAN TROOPS SENT TO AMERICA. 203 

orders, but went further, and took back his whole regiment of three 
or four liundred men. He was tried afterward for deserting General 
Arnold ; but the court-martial acquitted him on the ground that the 
men must have starved had they remained. 

10. But Arnold, who was a man of great decision, marched on. 
For thirty-two days not a human dwelling was seen. They arrived^ 
at last, on the mountains between the Kennebec and Chau-di-ere', and 
found their way down the latter to Point Levy, opposite Quebec, 
where they arrived November 9. The people were here as much 
amazed at their arrival, as if so many ghosts had come among them — 
which, indeed, many of them more resembled than living beings. 



CHAPTEE XCV. 

Period of the Revolutionary War, Continued. — The 
Hessian troops hired and sent to America. — General 
Howe succeeds General Gage. — The British driven 
from Boston. 

1. The British, all this while, had possession of Boston, Roxbury 
Neck, and Bunker's Hill, as well as the command of the harbor and 
shipping. They, therefore, had free access to such supplies as came 
to them by the water. But it happened, in one instance, in the win- 
ter of 1Y75-6, that the supply of fuel and food fell short, and the 
army were put on very scanty allowance. 

2. In this extremity, they sent eleven armed vessels to Georgia, to 
bring rice ; but only two of them could get any, on account of the 
hostile state of the public feeling toward them. For fuel, they used 
the tind^er of dwelling-houses and other buildings which they pulled 
down for that purpose, and even of some of the churches. 

3. In the spring of 1776, efforts were made in England to raise 
troops for the American war, but they were not very successful. The 
war was not popular among the mass of the people there, and only a 
few thousand soldiers were enlisted. At length a bargain was made 
by the government for seventeen thousand German troops, called 
Hessians^ because they came from the small state of Hesse. These 
were all sent over to America. 

9. What was done by one of the colonels? 10. Describe the appearance of the men 
on reaching Quebec. 

Chap. XCV.— 1. How were the British situated at this time? 2. What did they do 
for food and fuel? 3. What was done in England in the spring of 1776? "What bargaig 
was at length made as to Hessians ? 



204 



HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 



4. General Howe had suc- 
ceeded General Gage in the 
roramand at Boston, some 
time in the year 1775, About 
the end of December, Wash- 
ington had discovered that 
a plan was on foot for mak- 
ing an attack on some part of 
the coast — perhaps New 
York. To prevent this, as 

■ w^ell as to gain possession of 
Boston, he began to meditate 
an attack on the town. 

5. It had been his purpose 
to make the attack in Feb- 
ruary, when both Charles Riv- 
er and the harbor were 
firmly frozen over ; but in a 
council of war the plan was 
opposed, and he yielded his 
opinion, though he did it re- 
luctantly. It was now deter- 
mined to get possesssion of 
Dorchester Heights, near 

South Boston, and which commanded the harbor. 

6. On the 2d of March the movement was begun. To conceal his 
real design from the enemy, Washington first made an attack on the 
town from Cambridge and Lech'-mere's Point with bomb-shells. This 
was continued for two or three days, especially at evening. The 
object was to divert the attention of the British from Dorchester 
Heights, which lay in the opposite direction. 

7. During the night of March 4, 1776, immediately after the firing 
began from Cambridge and elsewhere. General Thomas, with eight 
hundred men, and a working party of twelve hundred, with the ne- 
cessary tools, passed over from Roxbury, as silently as possible, to the 
Heights, and went to work. The ground was very hard, but by daylight 
they w^ere able so far to complete an entrenchment, that it served to 
shield them, in a good degree, from the shot of the enemy. 

8. When the British saw these works in the morning, they were 
greatly astonished. They perceived, in a moment, what an advantage 
this position gave to the Americans, and that they must either dis- 




HESSTAN OFFrCEU. 



4. What of General ITowc ? Washington? 5. What was his purpose ? How was tiie 
plan changed f 6. What was done on the 2d of March? Why was this done ? 7. Wliat 
was (i;.ne on March 4th ? 



THE BRITISH EVACUATE BOSTON. 205 

lodge them or give up the town. They sent out two thousand troops 
against them in boats, but a storm prevented them from landing so 
as to act in concert. 

9. At a council of war held by them the next morning, it was deter- 
mined to quit the town. But as they did not depart at once, the 
Americans continued to strengthen and extend their works, till, on 
the I7th of March, they had made such progress that the British dared 
not remain longer ; and by ten o'clock in the forenoon they were all 
under sail. 

10. Great was the joy of the Boston people when they saw the last 
of the British troops embark, and a division of Washington's army, 
under General Putnam, marching triumphantly over the Neck into the 
town. Washington himself, with the rest of his army entered next 
day amid general acclamations. 

11. Boston must have presented a dismal spectacle at this time. 
For sixteen months it had been subjected to all the distresses of a 
close siege, and to all the multiplied abuses of a foreign soldiery. 
Churches had been used for quarters for the soldiers, and their furni- 
ture and benches destroyed, and shops and houses, in many instances, 
had been pillaged of goods and clothing. 

12. The sufferings of the citizens, for want of food and fuel, had 
become extreme. Wood could not be had for less than ten dollars a 
cord ; fish was twenty-two cents a pound ; ham forty-five cents ; ducks 
a dollar apiece ; turkeys three dollars ; sheep eight dollars, and vege- 
tables could scarcely be had. Apples were seven or eight dollars a 
barrel. Some, in the scarcity of food, were glad to eat horseflesh. 

13. Yet there were some Americans who did not share in the gen- 
eral joy at seeing the British depart. They believed America was 
wrong in resisting the parent country, and could not conscientiously 
afford their aid. These were called Tories or Refugees. More than a 
thousand such — some say fifteen hundred — left the town Math the 
British fleet for Halifax ; and many never returned. 

14. The Boston people, after the battle of Lexington, had been permit- 
ted to leave the town with their effects, provided they lodged their arms 
in Faneuil Hall ; and nearly two thousand fire-arms and six hundred and 
thirty -four pistols, &c., had been deposited there. These inhabitants 
now began to return with the army of Washington, consisting of twenty- 
one thousand eight hundred regular troops and six thousand eight hun- 
dred militia, which gave quite a new appearance to the face of things. 

8. What did the British do when they saw the American works on Dorchester Heights ? 
9. IIow did the Americans secure their advantage over the British? 10. Describe the 
feelings of the Boston people. 1 1. What was the state of Boston at this time ? 12. What 
were the prices of fuel and provisions? 13. Who were those Americans who did not 
rejoice at the departure of the British ? 14. What had been done at the battle of Lexing- 
ton ? Of what did the army consist ? 
18 



206 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES, 



CHAPTER XCYI. 

Period of the Revolutionary Wae, Continued. — The 
British oneditate an attach on New York and also on 
Charleston. — Battle at Sullivan's Island. 

1. Thus driven from Boston, the British generals now turned their 
thoughts toward the capture of New York and Charleston, The 
attack on tlie latter place was to be attempted first. For this purpose 
the British admiral, Sir Peter Parker, and General Clinton, having met 
at Cape Fear, sailed to the south, and, on the 4th of June, anchored 
about six miles from the city. 

2. The fleet consisted of two fifty-gun ships, four frigates, each of 
twenty-eight guns, and several smaller vessels. The land forces of 
General Clinton were twenty-eight hundred. Their anchorage was 
only three miles from Sullivan's Island, which the Americans had 
fortified, and which was defended by three hundred and seventy-five 
regular soldiers and a few militia. 

3. Before proceeding against Charleston itself, it was thought advis- 
able to destroy the works on Sullivan's Island, situated ten miles be- 
low the city, at the entrance of the harbor. An attack was therefore 
made on the 28th of June, a little before noon. The fort on the island 
was built of palmetto wood, so spongy that the shot buried themselves 
in it, without shivering it to pieces. It was defended, moreover, by 
sixty pieces of cannon. 

4. For ten long hours, the contest was terrible. Ship after ship 
poured in upon the fort its tremendous broadsides. The Americans 
also fought with great energy and effect. The whole harbor seemed 
to be in a flame. Two of the vessels were soon disabled, and a third 
almost destroyed, while great numbers of their men were slain. 

5. In one instance the fire of the fort completely ceased. Their 
powder was exhausted. The British now thought themselves sure 
of victory. But a new supply of powder came, and the battle went 
on hotter than ever for a considerable time longer. 

6. In another instance, the fiagstaff of the fort being shot away, 
a sergeant, by the name of Jasper, leaped down upon the beach, took 
up the flag, and, in spite of the incessant firing of the shipping, 

Chap. XCVI.— 1. What ot the British after being driven from Boston ? What prep- 
arations were inade to attack Charleston ? 2 Of what did the forces of the Fritt.sh 
consist? How was Sullivan's Island defended? 3. Where was Sullivan's Island? 4. 
Describe the attack. 5. What hap|iened at one time' 



DECLARATION OF INDEPENDENCE. 207 

mounted and placed it again upon the rampart. This sergeant was 
afterward presented with a sword and a commission; but the latter 
he refused to accept. 

7. Tlie firing ceased between nine and ten in the evening, and the 
ships hauled off. They were exceedingly shattered, and two hundred 
of their men were killed or wounded. The Americans had but ten 
killed and twenty -two wounded; though the damage done to the 
island was immense — every hut and even every tree being destroyed. 

8. This defence of Sullivan's Island was considered as one of the 
most brilliant events of the Revolutionary War. Great credit was 
given to the commanding officer, Colonel Moul'-trie, in honor of whom 
the fort was afterward called Fort Moultrie. 



CHAPTEK XCYIL 

Period of the Revolutionaky AVae, Continued. — Z^ee- 
laration of Independence. 

1. The reader will understand that the government of the country, 
during the Revolutionary War, consisted of what was called the Con- 
tinental Congress^ composed of members deputed by the several colo- 
nies. They held their sessions at Philadelphia, during the greater 
part of the period. 

2. The first Continental Congress, as we have stated, was opened at 
Philadelphia, in September 1774, all the thirteen colonies being rep- 
resented, except Georgia. Peyton Randolph, of Virginia, was chosen 
President, and George Thomson, of Pennsylvania, secretary. 

3. The second Continental Congress convened in May, 1776, John 
Hancock, of Massachusetts, being elected President. .The session 
was one of great and permanent interest. The independence of the 
colonies had, indeed, already been talked of among the people ; but 
now it became an early topic of discussion by their delegates. 

4. The first resolution of this body, on the subject, was introduced 
June 7, by Richard Henry Lee, one of the delegates from Virginia. 

6. Tell the anecdote of the flagstaff. 7. When did the battle cease ? What was the 
loss on both sides ? 8. What was thought of the defence of Sullivan's Island? What 
was it afterward called ? 

Chap. XCVII. 1. — What was the government of the colonies during the Avhole Eevolu- 
tlonary War ? Where did the Continental Congress generally hold their sessions ? 2. 
What of the first Continental Congress ? 3. When did the second Continental Con- 
gress meet? Who was elected President? Why was the second Congress one of 
particular interest ? 



208 



HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 




JOHN HANCOCK 



It was, "that these united colonies are, and of right ouglit to be, free 
and independent states ; that they are absolved from all allegiance to 
the British crown; and that all political connection between them 
and the state of Great Britain is and ought to be totally dissolved." 

5. His speech, on introducing this resolution, was one of tlie most 
eloquent ever heard in the councils of America, and drew forth able 
remarks from others. On the 11th of June, it was still further dis- 
cussed, and again on the 1st of July. On the 2d of July, a committee 
was elected to draft a declaration according to the spirit of Mr. Lee's 
resolution. 

6. This committee, consisting of Thomas Jefferson, of Virginia, John 
Adams, of Massachusetts, Benjamin Franklin, of Pennsylvania, Koger 
Sherman, of Connecticut, and Robert R. Livingston, of New York, re- 
ported a Declaration of Independence, which, on the 4th of July, 
was adopted, and ordered to be handsomely engrossed on parchment, 
in order to be signed. 



4. What was the first resolution passed by the body in relation to our National Inde- 
pendence? 5. What of Richard Henry Lee's speech? 6. Who were the members of the 
committee to draft the Declaration ? 



DECLARATION OF INDEPENDENCE, 



209 



7. By this instrument the thirteen American colonies declared them- 
selves Free and Indepeiident^ under the name of the Thirteen United 
States of America. It was signed on the 2d of August by all the mem- 
bers of the Congress then present, and, by some who had not been 
present, on the 4th of July. Their number was fifty-six. 

8. To sign such 
an instrument as 
this, under such 
circumstances, re- 
quired no little 
firmness. It would 
surely be regard- 
ed by Great Bri- 
tain as treason, 
and might bring 
the parties to the 
most violent or ig- 
nominious death. 
Yet the hand- 
writing of the 

«ELEBRATION OP THE DECLARATION OP INDEPENDENCE. sio^nCrS aS may be 

seen by the copies 
of the Declaration which are preserved, is firm, except in the case of 
Stephen Hopkins, an aged man, who had the palsy. 

9. None of these signers of the Declaration of Independence are 
now living, though most of them reached a good old age. Four lived 
beyond the age of ninety; fourteen exceeded eighty; and twenty- 
three exceeded seventy. Their average age was about sixty-five. 
The average age of the delegates from ]S ew England was seventy-five. 

10. This fact of their great age has been sometimes adduced as a 
proof of the Divine approbation and blessing on the cause they es- 
poused. To a truly philosophic mind, it proves that life is prolonged 
and health promoted by living for such purposes as develop all our 
powers, instead of remaining in the depths of ignorance, or pursuing 
a career of listlessness, or selfishness. 

11. It, however, intimated one thing more. Since the mental activ- 
ity and energy which are awakened in a great political conflict are 
favorable to health and longevity, is it not highly probable that the 




7. What was declared by the instrument drawn up by the committee ? By whom was 
it signed? 8. What Wits required in the signing of this instrument ? What is said of the 
handwriting of the signers? 9. What can you say of these men? 10. What maybe 
deduced from the fact of the long lives of the signers of the Declaration? 11. What 
reflection can you make on this subject ? 
18* 



210 



HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 



great moral revolutions, in the midst of which we live, by rousing the 
whole being — the moral and religious, no less than the intellectual 
powers — will be still more so? 

12. The Declaration of Independence was received everywhere 
throughout the Union with tokens of approbation. Processions w^erc 
formed, bells rang, cannon fired, and patriotic addresses made, accom- 
panied by all the usual demonstrations of public joy. Such was the 
spirit at least of the majority ; though it must be admitted there were 
those who viewed the whole matter in a very different light. The day 
on which this instrument was adopted by Congress, the 4th of July, 
1776, has since been annually commemorated, and its anniversary has 
become the great holiday of our country. 



CHAPTER XCVIIL 

Period of the Hevolutionaky War, Continued. — The 
Britisli GornmenGe their jplan of Attack on New York. — 
Battle of Long Island. 

1. The British forces began to assemble about this time on Staten 

Island, near New York, in order to 
make preparation to attack the 
city. General Clinton, after the 
battle at Sullivan's Island, had 
gone there with his troops, and 
General Howe had arrived from 
Halifax early in July. Some of 
the refugee colonists of New 
York had also joined them — two 
hundred in a single instance. 

2. As it had early occurred to 
General Wasliington that the 
British would aim at New York, 
he had left Boston, w^here his 
presence was no longer absolutely 
necessary, and repaired to that 
city, accompanied by General 
Lee; to which place the troops 
collected together, in the city and its 




GENERAL CLTNTON. 

soon followed him. When 



12. How was the Declaration received throughout the Union ? How has the anniver- 
sary of the passing of the Declaration of Independence been since observed ? 

Chap. XCVTII.— 1. What did the British now begin to do ? Who joined them? 2. 
What had Washington done ? What troops had he at New T ^^rk ? 



DEFENCE OF NEW YORK. 



211 




jS£0O/\WNCL lL ^ 

k/ 09 /^- ,0 



'<) 



/^'VL 



y : 







I'LAX OF THK BATTLE OF LONG ISLAND 



vicinity, they were found to amount to seventeen thousand two hun- 
dred and twenty-four men, most of them, however, raw recruits. 

3. About fifteen thousand of the American troops, under Generals 
Sullivan and Putnam, w^ere stationed at Brooklyn, on Long Island. 
On the 22d of August, a part of the British ar.ny, the whole amount- 
ing to near thirty thousand men, crossed over from Staten Island to 
Long Island, to make a descent upon the Americans. 

3. What troops were sent to Brooklyn? What did tho British now do? 



212 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

4. On the 27th o± August they began an attack, and a battle ensued, 
which lasted the whole day, and ceased only w 1th the darkness of the 
night. The British had the advantage; though ^t was obtained at the 
expense of from three to five hundred lives. 

5. But the American loss was still greater. More than a thousand 
of their number were taken prisoners ; and among the rest, General 
Sullivan and Lord Sterling. From one to two hundred were slain. 
About five thousand of the American troops were actively engaged, 
these being obliged to sustain the shock of fifteen thousand of the 
enemy. 

6. One cause of the misfortunes of the Americans this day was, no 
doubt, the inexperience of the troops. Another was the want of suit- 
able officers. One of the generals was sick, and General Putnam, 
though as brave a man as there was in the army, had but recently 
arrived, and was unacquainted with the ground. 

7. The British army encamped within half a mile of the American 
lines, and on the following day began to make preparations to renew 
the attack, confidently expecting that they should speedily be able to 
cut off the whole army. In this, however, they were disappointed ; 
for, when they were ready for the attack, not an American was to be 
found on the island. 

8. Under the personal care and inspection of Washington, who had 
crossed from New York and joined the army the day after the battle, 
the American troops recrossed to the city on the morning of the 30th, 
just in time to save themselves. They had moved chiefly in the night 
and under cover of a fog. Indeed, the British were so near the 
last troops who embarked, that they distinctly heard their move- 
\nents. 

9. Upon the retreat of the American army from Long Island, Wash- 
mgton gave vent to his feelings in terms of strong exasperation and 
impatience, almost the only instance in which he was deserted by that 
calmness and equanimity which formed a prominent element of his 
character. He had been on horseback continually two or three days 
and nights, and had not closed his eyes in sleep for the whole time, and 
was, therefore, ill prepared to endure the mortification of so severe a 
defeat. 

10. As it was expected that the British would forthwith attack New 
York, a council of war was called, in which it was at length determined 
to evacuate the city. After removing the military stores and baggage 



4. Describe the battle on Long Island. 5. What was the loss of the Americans ? 6. What 
was the cause of the misfortunes of the Americans? 7. What was done by the Briti.-ii 
army ? 8. How had the Americans left New York ? 9. What can you say of Washia-; ou / 
10. Whiit did the council of war determine upon ? 



BATTLE OF WHITE PLAINS. 213 

to Kingsbridge, fifteen miles north of the city, about nine thousand of 
the troops followed, and the remainder soon afterward. The British 
took possession of New York September 15. 



CHAPTEE XCIX. 

Period of the Revolutionary War, Continued. — Battle 
of White Plains. — Retreat of Washington. 

1. After leaving three thousand troops to garrison Fort Lee, Wash- 
ington had retreated from Kingsbridge, and entrenched himself at 
White Plains, twenty-seven miles from New York. The British, 
after gaining some advantages in a skirmish at Harlem Heights, near 
the city, slowly pursued the retreating army, and overtook them at 
their encampment at White Plains. 

2. Here, October 28, a considerable action took place, and several 
hundreds fell on both sides. It would not be easy, however, to say 
which party was victorious. Washington did not leave his position, 
and the British did not immediately advance. Finding, however, that 
the enemy had received a reinforcement soon after the battle, Wash- 
ington retreated five miles to North Castle. 

3. Here he left seven thousand five hundred men under General 
Lee, and then crossed the Hudson with the rest of his troops, and sta- 
tioned himself in the neighborhood of Fort Lee, on the New Jersey 
shore. 

4. On the 15th of November, the British went against Fort Wash- 
ington. A summons was sent to Colonel Magaw, the commander, to 
surrender, on pain of being put to the sword. As he refused to com- 
ply, an attack was made the next morning with such fury that when 
a second summons was sent, the colonel felt constrained to capitulate. 
All his men, amounting now to about two thousand six hundred, were 
made prisoners. 

5. The British army sustained a heavy loss in the conflict — from 
eight hundred to one thousand men. But, being determined to follow 
up the victory, they soon proceeded, under Lord Corn-wal'-lis, to at- 

Chap. XCIX. — L Where did Washington encamp? What was done by the British? 
•2. What of the engagement at White Plains? To what place did Washington retreat? 
3. Where did he then station himself? Describe the capture of Fort Washington by 
the British. 5. What was next done by the British ? Who commanded Fort Lee ? 

* Fort Lee was situated on the west side of the Hudson, in the town of Hackensack, 
New Jersey, ten miles north of New York ; Fort Washington was situated on Manhattan 
Island, on the east side of the Hudson, eleven miles from New York. I'hese two works 
commanded the river 



2U 



HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES, 




PLAN OF THE BATTLE OF AVHITE PLAINS. 

tack Fort Lee. This was commanded by General Greene. As the 
British forces were evidently too strong for him, he evacuated it before 
he lost the opportunity. 

6. General Greene, whom we shall have frequent occasion to men- 
tion, was a humane man, as is evident from his unwillingness on this 
and other occasions to expose, to no good purpose, the lives of his men. 
He was the son of a Quaker preacher in Rhode Island, and manifested 



What was the character of General Greene ? His early history ? 



BATTLE AT TRENTON. 215 

an early fondness for learning, though he had but few opportunities 
for study. 

7. He had first signalized himself in the battle of Lexington, before 
which he had been engaged either in studying or in school-teaching. 
Law was the profession at which he aimed, and in which his natural 
inclination and great perseverance would have made him successful, 
had he not been called away in early life to share the fortunes of war. 

8. The whole American army now retreated through New Jersey 
toward Philadelphia — the British eagerly following them. The pursuit 
was so close that the hindmost forces of the Americans were some- 
times in sight of the bridges they had passed over and pulled down 
after them, when the British were building them up again. 

9. This was a calamitous hour to the Americans. When the re- 
treat commenced, the American forces scarcely exceeded four thou- 
sand ; and when they crossed the Delaware, at Trenton, the number 
of effective men was reduced to three thousand. Even this force, poorly 
fed and sustained, w^as daily and hourly diminishing. 

10. Washington, however, in the midst of all this discouragement, 
did not allow himself to be depressed. While all else wore the ap- 
pearance of gloom — even the countenances of the soldiers — Washing- 
ton was serene and cheerful. Trusting to the justice of the cause he 
had espoused, and to Heaven, he persevered, in the midst of difficul- 
ties w^hich would at least have shaken the constancy of many who 
have deserved the name of very brave men. 

11. On the very day of Washington's retreat over the Delaware, the 
8th of December, the British forces took possession of Ehode Island 
and blocked up a squadron of American vessels there, with a number 
of privateers at Providence. The island was held by the king's forces 
two or three years. 



CHAPTEE C. 



Period of the Revolutionary War, Continued. — Battle 
at Trenton. 

1. Philadelphia being now in imminent danger of becoming the 
seat of war. Congress, in December, 1776, adjourned to Baltimore ; not, 
however, till they had drawn up and adopted certain articles of Con- 

7. Where did he first signalize himself? What was his intended profession ? 8. What of 
the American army? Describe the pursuit of the British. 9. What was the situation of 
the Americans ? 10. How did Washington appear in these trying circumstances? U 
What did the British forces now do in Rhode Island ? 

Chap. C— 1. What did Congress now do? What articles did they draw up? 



210 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

federation^ in spirit not iinlilve the Federal Constitution adopted many 
years afterward. These they sent to the respective assemblies of each 
state for approbation. They also gave nearly absolute powder to Gen- 
eral Washington to conduct the military affairs of the country. 

2. After crossing the Delaware River into Pennsylvania, Washing- 
ton very fortunately received a reinforcement of about fifteen hundred 
men, beside a considerable body of militia ; so that he had now with 
him an army of seven thousand. But, as the term of enlistment with 
a large proportion of his older troops would expire at the end of the 
year, Washington was anxious to effect something immediately. 

8. The British army was yet at Trenton. Washington's plan was to 
recross the Delaware and attack them in their quarters. It was late 
in the season, being December 25 ; and, to use a well-known phrase, 
"as cold as Christmas." Yet, neither Washington nor his troops were 
to be deterred by this. 

4. At night, the army, in three divisions, attempted to cross the 
river in as many different places. It was not only cold, but dark and 
stormy. The river was crowded with broken ice, rushing together 
and sweeping down its rapid current. The division commanded by 
Washington in person was alone successful. This got safely over, and 
at eight in the morning they were before Trenton. 

5. They first attacked a body of Hess'-ians, who, after a most de- 
termined resistance, at length surrendered. From nine hundred to 
one thousand of them were made prisoners, with some cannon. Five 
hundred cavalry alone made their escape. This brilliant achievement, 
at a moment of great despondency, roused the spirits of our army, and 
kindled anew the flagging hopes of the country. 

6. As Washington did not think it prudent to hazard any thing more 
at present, h6 immediately returned to the Pennsylvania side of the 
Delaware with his prisoners. But having refreshed his troops and 
secured his prisoners, he crossed once more to Trenton, and took up 
his head-quarters there. 

Y. Their success at Trenton had infused new courage into the 
American troops, and Washington was determined to make the most 
of it. It was soon found that the British were concentrating their 
forces at Princeton and preparing for battle. On the 2d of January, 
1777, they caine on to Trenton. On their approach, AVashington 
retired with his forces and posted himself on the opposite bank of a 
rivulet, from which he kept up a firing upon the enemy till night. 



2. What reinforcement did Washington receive ? What was he anxious to do ? 3. What 
was Washington's plan ? 4. Describe the passage of the Delaware. 5. What body was 
first attacked ? What was the result of the attack? 6. What did Washington now do? 
7 Whnt was soon found ? What took place January 2. 1777? What did Wflshington do? 



BATTLE NEAR PRINCETON. 217 

8. At dark, the firing ceased on both sides. Cornwallis encamped 
with his troops near the village, expecting to receive a reinforcement 
early the next morning, when he should be well prepared to renew 
the attack. The fires kindled by the two armies were in full view of 
each other. 

9. The situation of the Americans was exceedingly critical. The 
forces of Cornwallis, if they were concentrated at Trenton, as there 
was reason to expect, were greatly superior to those of Washington. 
If a battle should be hazarded in the morning it was with almost a 
certainty of being defeated. But the Delaware could not now be 
crossed with safety, on account of broken ice. 

10. But there was another difiicnlty in the way of recrossing the 
river. It would leave New Jersey wholly to the enemy, depress the 
public mind, check the enlistment of recruits, of which the army stood 
iit great need, and leave open the door to an attack on Philadelphia. 



CHAPTER CI. 



Period of the Revolutionary War, Continued. — Battle 
near Princeton. 

1. T&E final determination was, to march by a circuitous route as 
quickly as possible, to Princeton, and, if possible, proceed to Bruns- 
wick, where Lord Cornwallis had stores. In order, however, to 
secure the baggage, Washington had it removed, as secretly as possible, 
to Burlington. 

2. The army commenced its march at midnight. With a view to 
deceive the British, the fires were left unextinguished ; the guards 
even remained to keep them burning brightly, as well as to watch the 
bridge and fords of the rivulet till daylight, when they were to follow 
the army. The project succeeded to a charm, and a little after sunrise, 
next morning, Washington's army was seen approaching Princeton. 

3. Here he met with some British regiments on the march, and one 
of the hottest battles ensued which was fought during the whole war. 
At first, the British, with fixed bayonets, compelled the Americans to 
retreat, with considerable loss, and, among the rest, that of General 
Mercer of Virginia. 

. 8. What was the state of both armies at dark ? 9. What was the situation of the 
Americans ? 10. "What good reasons were there for not crossing the Delaware ? 

Chap. CL— 1. What was finally determined upon ? What did Washington do as to the 
baggage? 2. What was done to deceive the British ? What of Washington's army ? 3. 
"Wuiat now ensued? Result to the Americans? 
19 



218 HISTORY OF TH5: UNITED STATES. 

4. Washington, with the main body of the army, now >^.ame on, and 
renewed the attack with great spirit. Contrary to hi» ciSual policy, 
and the policy of the war generally, he exposed himself, for a time, to 
the hottest fire of the enemy. At length, victory was declared in 
favor of the Americans. 

5. But it was dearly bought. In addition to the brave Greneral 
Mercer, two colonels from Pennsylvania, and several other valuable 
officers, were among the slain. The total loss of the Americans was not 
stated. It was only said that while the British lost one hundred killed 
and three hundred prisoners, the American loss was somewhat less. 

6. Lord Oornwallis discovered, at daylight, that the Americans had 
escaped, upon which he followed on to Princeton. But he arrived 
a little too late to engage in the conflict, Washington having retired, 
in his usual prudent manner, toward Morristown. Here the army 
took up their quarters for the winter. 

7. It was time for them to do so, for it was not only January, but 
the troops needed repose, as well as almost every thing elto. During 
their late marches many of them had been without shoes, and their 
naked feet, in passing over the frozen ground, were so gashed as to 
mark every step with blood. Moreover, there was scarcely a tent in 
the whole army. 

8. Though the main body of the army was stationed at Morristown, a 
small body of troops, under General Putnam, wintered at Princeton. 
These, with the volunteers and militia, completely overran New Jersey. 
One party surprised Elizabethtown, and took one hundred prisoners. 
Another took sixty refugees on British pay. Another, still, beside 
some prisoners, took forty wagons, one hundred horses, &c. General 
Putnam, alone, with his small army, captured, during the winter, 
about one thousand prisoners ! 

9. There had been, for some time, a great want of arms and 
ammunition in the American army ; but, about this time, a twenty- 
four gun vessel arrived from France, with eleven thousand stands 
of arms and one thousand barrels of powder. At the same time, also, 
ten thousand stands of arms arrived in another quarter. 

10. It is also worthy of record that the smallpox having appeared 
among the regular troops at Morristown, daring the winter, Wash- 
ington had his soldiers nearly all inoculated. The disease was light, 
except in a very few instances ; not a day passing in which they could 
not, had they been called upon, have encountered the enemy. 

4. What of Washington? 5. What officers did the Americans lose ? What of the 
British loss ? 6, What did Lord Cornwallis then do ? Where did the American army- 
encamp for the winter ? 7, What had been the state of the troops? 8. What of tb«f 
troops under Putnam ? What success had they during the winter? 9. What arnas and 
ammunition did the Americans now receive ? 10. What of the smallpox ? 



ATTACK ON DANBURY. 219 



CHAPTER CII. 

Period of the Revolutionary War, Continued. — Attack 
on Dmibury. 

1. In the spring of 1777, tlie British commander in New York 
amused himself by sending out detachments of troops to ravage the 
country. One of these was sent against some military stores at 
Peekskill, on the east side of the Hudson, about fifty miles above 
New York. On its approach, the Americans fired the storehouses 
and retired. 

2. On the 26th of April, General Try on, with a detachment of two 
thousand men, made an expedition to Connecticut for a similar pur- 
pose. He landed near Fairfield, and marched through the country, 
with the greatest possible speed, and almost without opposition, to 
Danbury. 

3. The few militia who were at Danbury fled to a neighboring 
height, and waited for a reinforcement. The British, in the mean 
time, destroyed eighteen houses, eight hundred barrels of pork and 
beef, eight hundred barrels of flour, and two thousand bushels of 
grain. Seventeen hundred tents were also either destroyed or carried 
away. Nothing was spared but the houses of the tories. 

4. On their return through Ridgefield, they found the road blocked 
up by General Arnold with five hundred men. They also soon found 
themselves attacked in the rear by Generals Wooster and Silliman, 
with a force of three hundred. A skirmish ensued, in which General 
Wooster was mortally wounded and his troops driven back. They then 
proceeded and were met by General Arnold. 

5. A sharp conflict ensued. A whole platoon fired at Arnold, 
when he was not over thirty yards distant, but they only killed his 
horse. A soldier advanced toward him with his bayonet, but Arnold 
shot him dead with his pistol, and escaped. But two thousand regu- 
lar troops were too strong for eight hundred raw militia, and the latter 
were dispersed. 

6. Arnold, however, returned to the attack next day at eleven o'clock, 
and opposed the British till five in the afternoon, when they reached 
their ships. Even here the Americans charged upon them, but were re- 
pulsed. The British now embarked for New York ; not, however, 
without the loss of nearly three hundred of their men. 

Chap. CII.— 1. What can you say of the conduct of the British in 177T? What of 
Peekskill ? 2. General Tryon ? 3. What destruction did the British make at Danbury ? 
4. What occurred at Ridgefield ? 5. What of General Arnold ? 6. What did Arnold do 
the next day ? Result of the conflict ? 



HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES 



7. Arnold behaved, on this occasion, with great bravery ; as, indeed, 
up to this hour, he always had done. On account of his good conduct, 
Congress presented him with a fine, nobly caparisoned war-horse. To the 
memory of General Wooster, they ordered a monument to be erected. 
This, however, was not executed, but in 1854, a suitable monument 
was completed, and consecrated at Danbury, by the citizens of the 
state. 




CHAPTER cm. 

Period of the Kevoltjtionaky Wak, Continued. — Battle 

of the Brandywine. 

1. During the spring of this year, 1777, Washington remained en- 
trenched among the hills of New Jersey — the army daily and hourly 
gaining strength by new recruits. His forces at length amounted to 
fifteen thousand men, and the British were becoming afraid of him. 
Iti the latter part of the spring, his camp was at Middlebrook. 

2. News was received about this time that General Burgoyne, 
with a large force, was approaching Ticonderoga, for Canada; and 

7. What was Arnold's conduct on this occasion? What was done by Congress? 
Chap. CIII. — 1. What of the American forces during the spring of 1777? 



BATTLE OF THE BRANDYWINE. 221 

there was room for suspicion that he aimed at New England. It was 
thought that the British were likely to pass up the Hudson to meet 
and join him, instead of making the long-threatened attack on 
Philadelphia. 

3. All doubt was, however, dissipated by the arrival in the Chesa- 
peake,* in the month of July, of the British fleet from New York, with 
sixteen thousand men, under General Howe. By the 3d of September 
they were rapidly approaching Philadelphia. "Washington, who had kept 
his eye on all their movements, was on the road to meet them. The 
two armies met at a place called Chad's Ford, on the river Brandy - 
wine, about twenty-five miles south-west from Philadelphia. 

4. Here, on the 11th of September, a severe battle took place, 
which lasted nearly all day. The Americans were at length defeated 
with very great loss. They then made the best of their way to 
Chester, where they arrived that night, and the next day they pro- 
ceeded to Philadelphia. 

5. Among the wounded of the American army, were General 
Woodford and the Marquis de La Fay-ette'. The latter had only just 
arrived from France ; his commission in the army was dated July 31st. 
He fought for the Americans, except when absent on their account in 
France, till the end of the war ; and always without pay. The Count 
Pu-las'-ki,t who had arrived with La Fayette, also fought for our coun- 
try, for the first time, in this battle. 

6. Washington was very much chagrined at this defeat. But neither 
the public mind nor Congress itself would have been satisfied, without 
a,t least an attempt to prevent the British from entering Philadelphia. 
Indeed, Congress advised him to hazard a second battle, and he was 
on the 16th of September, about to do so ; but an unexpected shower 
wet the powder in the cartridge-boxes of the troops, and he was 
obliged to give it up. 

2. What news was received of General Burgoyne ? What was thought likely to be 
done by the British? 3. What general was at their head? Where did Washington 
meet him? 4. What was the result of the battle ? 5. What officers were wounded? 
What of Marquis La Fayette ? Courrt Pulaski ? Kosciusco? 6. What greatly chagrined 
Washington ? What of Congress ? 

* They went up the Chesapeake because they had heard that the Delaware was ob- 
structed. 

+ The cause of the Americans, strusrgling for their independence, brought to their aid 
a number of Europeans who sympathized with them, and generously exerted themselves 
in their behalf. Among these was La Fayette, whose name is almost as dear and as familiar 
to the Americans as that of Washington. Another was Pulaski, a Polish nobleman, who 
had distinguished himself in his own country, and became a brigadier-general in our army. 
He fought bravely in several engagements, and finally fell in an assault on Savannah, in 
1779. There is a monument erected to his memory in that place. Kosciusco, a Polish re- 
fugee, and one of the noblest characters in history, also came over to America, and did 
good service in our cause. 
19* 



222 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

7. The British also gained some other advantages about this time; 
among which may be mentioned the surprise and defeat of General 
Wayne. He had been sent with fifteen hundred men to harass the 
i^ritish army, and cut oif straggling parties. The enemy, having found 
out his position, came suddenly upon him, and killed and wounded about 
three hundred of his men. 

8. It was at length concluded to quit the city and neighborhood of 
Philadelphia, and repair to a strong position on the Schuylkill, twenty 
miles northward. The British, on the 26th of September, entered 
Philadelphia, and posted the main body of their forces at Germantown, 
seven miles to the north. 



CHAPTER CIV. 

Period of the Revolutionary War, Continued. — Capture 
of General Prescott^ in Rliode Island. 

1. Among the many daring exploits which took place during the 
war, one of the most remarkable was the capture of General Prescott. 
On the 10th of July, of this year, 1777, while the British, under this 
officer, had complete possession of the island of Ehode Island, and lay 
encamped on the western side of it, one Barton, a militia colonel, of 
Warwick, having learned, from a deserter, their exact position, planned 
and executed an attack upon them as singular as it was successful. 

2. He first collected together his regiment, and then asked which ot 
them would hazard their lives in an expedition he was about to under- 
take. Such, he said, as were willing, might signify it by stepping two 
paces forward. As he was known to be worthy of their confidence, 
every man of them stepped forward. 

3. Having made a selection of forty of the boldest and stoutest of 
them, and procured five whale-boats, they started ofl^" at nine o'clock 
in the evening. He directed them to sit perfectly still, like statues, 
and merely attend to and obey his orders. His own boat went for- 
ward, and to distinguish it, had a long pole extended from the fore 
l)jirt, with a handkerchief tied to it. 

4. As they rowed by Prudence Island, they heard the English 

7. What of General Wayne ? 8. What was at length concluded upon by the Americans? 
Where did the British post themselves? 

Chap. CIV.— 1. Where were some British troops encamped in July, 1TT7? What did 
Colonel Barton undertake ? 2. How did he select men for his enterprise ? 8. How did 
they proceed in their expedition ? How was Barton's boat signalized ? 



CAPTURE OF GENERAL PRESCOTT. 223 

cry, "AlPs well." A noise was heard on the mainland, like 
tlie trampling of horses, but, as it was very dark, nothing could be 
seen, and not a whisper was uttered. At length they landed, and set 
off for General Prescott's lodgings, about a mile from the shore. 

5. In going along, they were obliged to pass a house occupied by a 
company of cavalry. " Who comes there?" said the sentinel. They 
said nothing and moved on. " Who comes there ?" said the sentinel 
again. " Friends," said Barton. " Advance, then, and give the 
countersign," said the sentinel. " We have none," said Barton; "but 
have you seen any deserters to-night?" 

6. In an instant, the sentinel found himself seized, his musket 
wrested from him, and himself pinioned. " Say not a single word," 
said Barton, " on penalty of instant death." Terribly frightened, and 
unable to make any resistance, he yielded to the command, and they 
took him along with them. 

7. They soon reached a house, burst the door, and rushed in. A 
British soldier, in his shirt, ran to awake and rouse the cavalry ; but 
the men would not believe a word he said, and only laughed at him. 
He confessed that the creature he had seen, who it happened was 
Colonel Barton, was dressed in white, which only increased the laugh, 
and so it ended. 

8. "Is General Prescott here?" said Barton, in a resolute tone, to 
the master of the house. "No, sir," said the poor fellow, frightened 
almost to death. Having secured him as a prisoner, they proceeded 
to search, but could not find Prescott. At this instant, Barton, from 
the head of the stairs, called to his men to fire the house at the four 
corners, as he would have General Prescott, either dead or alive. 

9. Firebrands were already in motion, when somebody in the next 
room asked, "What is the matter?" Barton burst opened the door, 
and found an elderly gentleman sitting up in bed. " Are you Gen- 
eral Prescott?" said he. "Yes, sir," was the reply. "You are my 
prisoner, then," said Barton, clapping him on the shoulder. He 
begged the favor of putting on his clothes, but they only wrapped a 
cloak about him, and a stout negro man carried him to the boats. 

10. Major Barrington had leaped from the window while they were 
seizing General Prescott, but he too was taken and hurried away to 
the boats. They had scarcely rowed through the British fleet, when 
a discharge of cannon convinced them that they were discovered, and 
fifty boats were on the pursuit. 



4. What did they hear among the British? 5. Describe the meeting with the sentinel? 
6. What did Barton do with the sentinel? 7. What did the British soldier do? 8. What 
means were taken to secure Prescott? 9. Describe the meeting between Barton and 
Pi-escott. 10. What other officer was taken ? 



224 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

11. But the pursuers were a little too late. Colonel Barton, with 
his prisoners, soon landed at Warwick Point. "You have made a 
bold push, colonel," said General Prescott, as he stepped ashore. 
''Thank you," said Barton, with a bow, "■?oe have clone as loell as we 
coulcV 



CHAPTEE CV. 

Period of the Revolutionary War, Continued. — Events 
in the North. — Approach of Burgoyne. — Murder of 
Miss McRea. — Attack upon Fort Schuyler. 

1. The movements of Bur-goyne' at the north have been alluded 
to. 'He had arrived at Quebec in June of this year, 1777, and while 
the British troops in the Middle States had been advancing to Phila- 
delphia, he had begun his march by way of the river Sorel and Lakes 
Champlain and George, toward Albany, where he hoped to meet Colonel 
St. Leger, who was to come from Lake Ontario, by way of the Mo- 
hawk. 

2. General Burgoyne was an ambitious, enterprising, and able 
officer. Fifteen years before, he had been engaged in the wars of 
Great Britain with the Portuguese and Spaniards, and, during the 
siege of Boston, he had been for a short time employed there. He 
set out from Canada with more than seven thousand men, beside a 
considerable body of artillery, and a thousand Canadian volunteers. 

3. On the 20th of May, he proceeded up Lake Champlain, and 
landed near Crown Point, where he met some Indians, to whom he 
made a war speech and gave the hand of friendship. Accompanied 
by a considerable body of the Indians, he advanced to Crown Point 
and soon afterward to Ticonderoga. 

4. This place was defended by three thousand men, under General 
St. Clair. At a counsel of war it was concluded to leave the fort at 
once ; but the British came up with the rear of their army, at Hub- 
bardton, as they were leaving it, and a battle ensued, in which two 
hundred Americans were killed, six hundred wounded, and two hun- 
dred taken prisonxjrs. 

5. The invading army reached Fort Edward, on the Hudson, July 



11. What did General Prescott say to Barton ? His reply ? 

Chap. CV.—l. What of General Burgoyne? 2. How had he formerly been engaged? 
8. By whom was he joined at Crown Point? 4 How was Ticonderoga defended ? What 
•wad the loss of the Americans in the engagement at Hubbardton ? 



MURDER OF MISS McREA. 226 

30, having destroyed much American property on the road. Here 
they made a halt, while the troops, especially the Indian allies, rav- 
aged the country. It was at the time these soldiers were quartered 
here, that the famous murder of Miss McRea, a beautifid and accom- 
plished American lady, took place. 

6. She was to have been married soon, to a young Englishman, and 
he had sent two Indians, whom he considered trustworthy, to guide her 
across the woods to the place where he was stationed. On their way, 
the Indians fell into a quarrel which should have the offered reward 
for transporting her, vrhen, to end the dispute, one of them killed her 
with his tomahawk. 

7. General Schuyler, wlio had commanded Fort Edward previous to 
the arrival of Burgoyne, had with liim a force of about four thousand 
four hundred men. On the approach of the enemy, he had annoyed 
them greatly by felling trees in the roads and destroying bridges ; but 
finding them too strong for him, he had abandoned the fort, and re- 
treated across the Hudson to Sar-a-to'-ga. 

8. Colonel St. Leger, with an army of British regulars, New York 
tories and Indians, had by this time approached Fort Schuyler, at the 
head of the Mohawk River, where Rome now stands, and laid siege to it. 
A body of militia, on their way to act in its defence, was ambushed by 
the Indians, and four hundred of them killed, mortally wounded, or taken. 

9. After much skirmishing, and some hotly-contested battles in the 
neighborhood of the fort, in which victory was alternately on the side 
of the British and the Americans, General Arnold, who had been sent 
to the relief of the fort, and who was not wanting in ingenuity, devised 
a stratagem for drawing off the Indians from St. Leger's army, which 
so weakened it that he was compelled to raise the siege. 



CHAPTER CVI. 



Period of the Revolutionary War, Continued. — Prog- 
ress of Burgoyne. — Battle of Bennington. — Battle of 
Stillwater. 

1. While Burgoyne, with his army, was at Fort Edward, he learned 
that the Americans had a considerable amount of military stores and 

5. What of the invading army ? "Who was murdered while the British were at Fort 
Edward ? 6. What was the cause of her murder? 7. Who had commanded Fort Edward? 
What did General Schuyler on the approach of the enemy ? 8. What of Colonel St. 
Leger ? 9. What was done by General Arnold? 
10* 



226 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

provisions at Bennington. With a view to secure them, he sent out 
Colonel Baum, a brave German oflBcer, with five hundred German 
troops and one hundred Indians. 

2. According to a manuscript order of General Burgoyne's, the num- 
ber of these Germans was three times as great as has just been stated. 
But whether there were fifteen hundred or only five hundred, they 
were not only very clumsy, but very inefiicient troops. Their hats 
and swords alone weighed nearly as much as the whole equipment of 
a common soldier ; and they could scarcely march under their weight. 

3. When Colonel Baum, with his troops, was within seven miles of 
Bennington, he learned that the Americans were strongly entrenched, 
and were hourly expecting a reinforcement. He therefore halted, 
sent back information to Burgoyne, and waited for further orders. 
Burgoyne immediately sent five hundred more German troops to his 
assistance. 

4. But before the arrival of these last, General Stark, with a body 
of '^ew Hampshire and Massachusetts militia, had determined to attack 
Colonel Baum in his position. The battle began about three o'clock 
in the afternoon, August 16, when the Germans were defeated and 
dispersed, and Colonel Baum mortally wounded. 

5. The pursuit of the Americans was checked, for the moment, by 
the arrival of the reinforcement which Burgoyne had sent ; but the 
latter soon expended their ammunition, and were obliged to retreat 
with their companions, with a loss of six hundred in killed and pris- 
oners, beside one thousand stand of arms and nine hundred swords. 

6. It is said that in order to animate his soldiers, who were unused 
to war, General Stark, before the opening of the battle, appealed thus 
to their sympathies : "My fellow-soldiers," said he, "we conquer to- 
day, or to-night Mary Stark is a widow." The appeal had effect; the 
soldiers fought as if in full view of their homes and firesides. 

7. General Stark had been in the old French and Indian war, and 
was once taken prisoner by the Indians. He was also at Bunker Hill 
and Trenton. He was a brave man and good citizen, and was the last 
surviving general of the American Revolution. He died at Manchester, 
in New Hampshire, in 1822, aged ninety-four years. 

8. After St. Leger abandoned the siege of Fort Schuyler, he re- 
turned to Montreal. Both he and Burgoyne had done their utmost to 
effect a junction of their troops at Albany, but had been hindered more 



Chap. CVI.— 1. Who did Burgoyne send to Bennington ? 2. What can you say of 

the German soldiers? 3. What occasioned Colonel Baum's delay? 4. Describe the 

ttack of General Stark. 5. What of the reinforcement? 6. How did Stark appeal to 

his soldiers before the battle? 7. Give some account of him. 8. What of St. Leger and 

Burgoyne ? 



BATTLE OF BENNINGTON 




PLAN OF THE BATTLE OF BENNINGTON. 



by the Americans than tliey expected. The condition of Burgoyne, 
moreover, was now becoming every day more and more critical. 

9, On the 21st of August General Gates arrived at the American 
camp, Congress, on the 4th, having given to him the command of the 
northern army. General Arnold also joined them about the same 
time. Burgoyne, however, continued to advance, it being easier for 
him to get forward than backward. 



9. What of Generals Gates and Arnold? 



228 



HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 




PLAN OF THE BATTLES OP STILLWATER AND SARATOGA. 

10. The two armies met on the 19th of September near Still'-wa-ter, 
twenty-two miles north from Albany. Here a severe battle was fought 
for four hours, which was only checked by night and darkness. Both 
armies, however, had suffered so much that they did not choose to 
renew the battle next morning. They were in sight of each other till 
October 7, w^hen a second battle was fought, in which Burgoyne was 
defeated. 



10. Describe the battle at Stillwater. What of a second battle ? 



CAPTURE OF BURGOYNE. 



229 



CHAPTEE CYII. 

Period OF the Pevolutionaky War, Continued. — Cajpture 
of Burgoyne. 

1. After the second battle of Stillwater, Burgoyne, with his troops, 

retreated to Sar- 
atoga. His army 
was exceedingly 
crippled, having 
lost, in both en- 
gagements, from 
twelve to fifteen 
hundred men, 
and at least one 
valuable officer, 
(icneral Frazer. 
The Americans 
too had sufifered, 
but not so severe- 
ly; among others, 
General Arnold 
was wounded. 

2. T]ie British general had now abandoned his haughty designs of 
conquest, and thought only of escape. Perceiving his object, General 
Gates posted several strong detachments of his army in situations to 
cut off his retreat. 

3. Burgoyne's first attempt was to reach Fort George, by way of Fort 
Edward. Finding his path unexpectedly obstructed, he caused his 
army to march by night ; still he found his retreat intercepted. About 
this time, moreover, the news came that Fort Edward had fallen into 
the hands of the Americans. 

4. Every door of escape now seemed closed, and every hope fled. 
Incessant toil and sickness, with much severe fighting, had worn down 
his army to three thousand five hundred effective men, and even these 
were almost destitute of provisions ; while the American army was 
daily increasing in numbers and courage. It is said that Burgoyne had 
two thousand five hundred on the sick list. 




SURRENDER OP BURGOYNE. 



Chap. CYII.— 1. What was the loss sustained by the British and American forces? 2. 
Plow was Burgoyne's plan of escape disconcerted by General Gates ? 3. What attempts 
did Burgoyne make at escape? 4. State of his army ? 
20 



230 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

5. In these circumstances he called a council of war, at which it was 
decided to surrender the army to General Gates. The preliminaries 
were soon settled, and the whole army, amounting to five thousand 
seven hundred and fifty-two men, with five thousand stand of arms, 
was given up to the Americans on the 17th of October, 1777. 

6. The capture of an entire army was, of course, a matter of much 
exultation with the American people, as it more than compensated for 
the reverses at and near Philadelphia. The thanks of Congress were 
voted to General Gates, and a gold medal was struck and presented to 
him by the president, in the name of the United States. 

7. The surrender of Burgoyne was followed by the reduction of 
several British posts in the north. Mount Defiance and Mount Hope 
had even surrendered to General Lincoln as early as September 13, 
and Mount Independence and Ticonderoga gave up soon afterward. 
An armed sloop was also taken, and two hundred and ninety prisoners. 

8. Although Sir Henry Clinton, with his troops, had not been able 
to proceed up the Hudson, to meet Burgoyne, yet he had done that 
which might have encouraged the latter, had it been in time. He had 
taken several forts on and near the Hudson River above New York, 
among which were Forts Clinton and Montgomery. 



CHAPTER CYIIl. 

Period of the Revolution aky War, Continued. — The War 
on the Ocean. 

1. Befoee the war of the Revolution, the colonies had no navy ex- 
cept a few vessels fitted out to cruise for pirates or to transport troops. 
But as soon as the war was fairly begun, this subject engaged the at- 
tention of public men. 

2. In October, 1775, Congress ordered one vessel of ten guns and 
another of fourteen to be equipped as national cruisers, and to be sent 
to the eastward on a cruise of three months, to intercept supplies de- 
signed for the royal troops. On the 80th of the same month, two more 
vessels, one of thirty-six and the other of twenty guns, were ordered. 

3. In October, 1776, the Americans had five frigates of thirty-two 
guns, five vessels of twenty-eight guns, and three of twenty-four, in 

5. Describe the surrender of Burgoyne. 6. What was the eflFect on the Americans? 
What of General Gates? 7. "What followed these events? 8. What had been done by 
Clinton? 

CiiAP. CVIII.— 1. What of the American navy before the Eevolution ? 2. What did 
Congress order in October, 1775? 



THE WAR OX THE OCEAN 



231 




FLAG OF THE UNITED STATES — THE STARS AND STRIPES, 



course of building, and several were ready for sea. One twenty-four, 

one twenty, two six- 
teens, three fourteens, 
one twelve, two tens, 
and two or three smaller 
vessels, were actually in 
the service. Congress, 
at this time, ordered 
three seventy -fours, five 
frigates, and two smaller 
vessels, to be built. 

4. The Alfred, a twen- 
ty-four gun ship, was, 
as we have seen, the 
largest in service. Of 
this vessel, Dudley Sal- 
tonstall was captain, and 

John Paul Jones first-lieutenant. The first ensign ever shown by a 

regular American man-of-war was hoisted on board the Alfred, by 

Lieutenant Jones, in December, 1775. 

5. What this ensign was is not now known with certainty. It is 
said, however, to have been a device representing a pine-tree, with a 
rattlesnake coiled at its root, and about to strike, with the motto, 
''Don't tread on me." The present national colors were not adopted 
by Congress till the year 1777. 

6. The first regular cruisers ever got to sea under the new govern*- 
ment, were the Hornet of ten guns, and the Wasp of eight. The first 
battle fought was ofl^the Bermudas, April 6, 1776, between the Alfred 
and Cabot on the American side, and the British ship Glasgow, of 
twenty guns. The Americans fought well, but the enemy escaped 
them. 

7. On the 17th of the same month, the Lexington, of sixteen guns, 
commanded by Captain Barry, fell in with the Edward, an armed ten- 
der of the ship Liverpool, and, after a close and spirited action of near 
an hour, captured her. The Lexington had four men killed and 
wounded, while the Edward was nearly cut to pieces. These battles 
gave the people great encouragement. 



3 What increase was there in 1776? 4. "What of the Alfred? Her commanders? 
What of the first flag? 5. What was the device ? When was the present national flag 
adopted? 6. What of the Hornet and Wasp? What was the first naval battle? The 
result ? 7 What of the next engagement ? 



232 



HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 



CHAPTER CIX. 

Period of the Pevoeutionaky War, Contintjed. — Exploits 
of Paul Jones. 

1. John Paul Jones, or as lie was commonly called, Paul Jones, "^ 

was transferred, in May, 1776, 
from the Alfred to the com- 
mand of the Providence, a 
vessel mounting twelve guns, 
and having on board seventy 
men. In this, he made six- 
teen prizes in little more than 
three weeks. He was also 
twice chased by British men- 
of-war, but escaped by strata- 
gem and superior sailing. 

2. In 1777, while the Brit- 
ish were taking possession of 
Philadelphia, and Gates was 
spreading a net for Burgoyne, 
Paul Jones was in France, en- 
deavoring, through the influ- 
ence of the American commissioners, Franklin, Deane, and Lee, to get 
the command of a larger and better vessel than any the Americans had. 
in the service. 

3. Unwilling, however, to be long idle, he sailed on a cruise in April, 
1778, in the Ranger, of eighteen guns. With this single little vessel 
he kept the whole coast of Scotland, and part of that of England, for 
some time in a state of alarm. He even made a descent, in one in- 
stance, upon Whitehaven, and surprised and took two forts with thirty 
pieces of cannon, and set fire to the shipping. 

4. In the vicinity of Whitehaven, an act w\ns committed by his men 
which Jones very much regretted, and did all he could afterward to 
atone for. The house of the Earl of Selkirk, in whose service Jones's 
father had been gardener, w^as robbed of its family plate. It was re- 




PAUL JONES. 



Chap. CIX.— 1. "Where was Paul Jones born ? When ? What ship did he now command ? 
What did he accomplish ? 2. What did he do in 1777? 3. What did he do in the Ranger? 
4. Describe the attack upon Whitehaven. 

* Paul Jones was a native of Scotland, born in 1736 He early settled m America, and 
devoted himself with ardor to the cause of the country of his adoption. 



EXPLOITS OF PALi^ JONES. 233 

turned after a time to Lady Selkirk, with a letter of apology and re- 
gret. 

5. In May, not long after the descent on Whitehaven, Jones was en- 
gaged with the British sloop-of-war Drake, a vessel equal in size and 
strength and the number of its men to the Ranger, which, after a 
smart action of about an hour, was captured. Soon after this ©vent, 
he sailed for Brest, in France, carrying in Avith him, it is said, two 
hundred prisoners. 

6. But the most remarkable exploit of Jones remains to be mention- 
ed. In the spring of 1779, with the aid of Dr. Franklin, who was 
then in France, he obtained the command of a little squadron of five 
vessels, of which the Bon Homme Richard, his own vessel of forty-two 
guns, was the largest. 

7. With this little fleet, he set sail, June 19, and after a cruise of a 
few weeks returned. Two more small vessels were now added to his 
squadron, and he sailed again on the 14th of August. On the 23d of 
September, after a most desperate battle, he captured ofii'Flamborough, 
on the north-east coast of England, the British ship of war Se-ra'-pis, 
of forty-four guns and a full complement of men. 

8. The circumstances of this engagement Avere most extraordinary. 
The fight commenced at evening, and continued into the night. The 
two frigates coming in contact, Jones lashed them together, and for 
two hours the dreadful conflict was carried on in this situation. At 
last both ships took fire. In this awful state of things, the American 
frigate Alliance came up, and in the darkness discharged a broadside 
into the Richard. 

9. Soon perceiving her mistake, she turned with fury upon the 
Serapis, which very soon surrendered. Of three hundred and fifty 
men on board the Richard, three hundred were either killed or wounded. 
The vessel was also so shattered that she soon sank, the Americans be- 
ing transferred to the captured vessel. 

10. Another British frigate, the consort of the Serapis — these two 
ships being engaged in convoying a fleet of merchant vessels returning 
from the Baltic — surrendered to the Americans during the capture of 
the Serapis. With great difficulty Jones brought his shattered prizes 
into a port of Holland. 

11. This victory was considered as one of the most remarkable feats 
of the revolutionary war. It raised the reputation of Jones as a naval 
commander to the highest pitch, both in Europe and America. The 



5. What of the engagement with the Drake ? How many prisoners had Jones made ? 
6. With how many vessels did he sail June 19 ? 7. What did he capture ? 8, 9. Desci-ibe 
the capture of the Serapis. 10. What of her consort? 11. What was thought of this 
victory 1 

20* 



234 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

king of France presented him with a gold sword. Congress also 
praised his zeal, prudence, and intrepidity, and voted him a gold medal. 

12. But, though a hold and skilful commander, Jones never knew 
how to command himself, nor to submit to the command of others. 
He was irritable, impatient, and impetuous, and harsh in his mode of 
government. So true is it that they only know how to govern well, 
who have first learned to obey. 

13. Jones continued in the war till near its close, and was afterward 
in the service of the Empress of Russia, But he was not successful ; 
he finally became indigent, neglected, and diseased — the consequence 
of his own want of moral and religious principles and good physical 
habits. He died at Paris in 1792. 



CHAPTER ex. 

Period of the Revolutionary War, Continued, — Battle 
of Germantown. 

1. Let us now return to the events of the war in 1777 at and near 
Philadelphia, The British contented themselves with the quiet posses- 
sion of the city and the adjacent places, till some time in October, when 
a part of their troops were detached to assist Admiral Howe and the 
fleet, in reducing some forts on the Delaware below the city — the re- 
mainder continuing in Germantown. 

2. Washington, who well knew that the eyes of the country were 
upon him, seized this opportunity for attacking them. His forces 
could not have amounted to more than ten thousand men, and many 
of them were poorly armed and equipped ; one thousand of them were 
actually barefooted, and not a few actually sick. Yet, under all these 
disadvantageous circumstances, it was thought necessary to hazard a 
battle. 

3. At seven o'clock in the evening of October 3, the troops set out 
for Germantown. The distance was fourteen miles. They marched 
rapidly, in order, if possible, to take the enemy by surprise. The plan 
was well contrived and well executed, and the surprise of the British 
was complete. The attack was made between daybreak and sunrise 
on the morning of the 4th. 

12. What can you say of Paul Jones as a man and commander? 13. What of Jones's 
subsequent life ? When did he die ? 

CuAP. ex. 1. — What were the British now doing? How were their troops occupied ? 
2. vv hat did "Washington think it necessary to do? 3. Describe the attack upon the 
British at Germantown. 



BATTLE OF GERMAN TOWN, 235 

4. At first the British were repulsed at several points, and from ane 
luindred to one hundred and twenty prisoners taken. But after the 
hattle had lasted ahout three hours the ammunition of the Americans 
in part failed. Nor was this the worst. A thick fog came on, and it 
was so dark that they could hardly distinguish friend from foe, and 
while the British were retreating in disorder, the Americans also, by 
some means, took to flight, and were in the end completely routed. 

5. Several amusing anecdotes are related of this bloody battle. 
One division of the army was commanded, it seems, by General 
Greene, whose aide-de-camp. Major Burnet, wore his hair in a cue. 
In the heat of the battle, this cue was shorn off by a musket-ball, 
which General Greene perceiving, said, "Don't be in haste, major; 
just dismount and get that long cue." The major dismounted and 
recovered the hair. 

6. Not many minutes afterward, another shot came whizzing so 
close to General Greene, as to take from his head a large powdered 
curl. The British, at this moment, were hotly pursuing them. 
" Don't be in a hurry, general," said Major Burnet; "dismount and 
get your curl." The general, however, did not venture to follow his 
advice. 

7. After the battle, Washington resumed his former position, but 
in a few days removed to White Marsh, eleven miles north-west of 
Philadelphia. The British, on their part, left Germantown and retired 
to the city. Both armies appeared to have gained confidence by this 
engagement, notwithstanding the well known fact, that both were 
most severely injured. 

8. A battle was fought, about this time, seven miles below Phila- 
delphia. The British had sent two thousand . men, under Colonel 
Donop, to attack a small fort which the Americans had erected on the 
Jersey side of the Delaware, at Red Bank. They were obliged to 
retire from the attack, with the loss of their brave commander and 
four hundred men. 



4. What was the result of the battle? 5, 6. Relate the anecdote of Generals Greene and 
Burnet. 7. What was now done by both armies? What was the effect of the last en- 
gagement? 8. Describe the attack of the Bi'itish upon the fort at Red Bank. 



236 



HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES, 



CHAPTER CXI. 
Period of the Revolutionaky War, Continued. — The 

Confederation. — The Stars and Stripes adopted, — Treaty 

of Alliance with France. — Treaty with the Cherokees, 

— Arnerican Army at Valley Forge. 

1. DuEiNG the session of Congress for the year 1777, the Confedera- 
tion of the colonies, which 
had been attempted the year 
before, was again under dis' 
cussion, but it had not yet 
been ratified by the states. 
By one of the articles the 
name given to the confed- 
eracy was, " The United States 
of America." 

2. One prominent article 
of the confederation fixed a 
line of distinction between 
the powers of the several 
states and Congress, in order 
to prevent collisions. To this 
end the articles were very 
specific, and they appear to 
adapted to the existing condition of the 




SILAS DEANE. 



have been, in many respects 
country. 

3. This year, also. Congress adopted a national flag, as we have 
already stated. The resolution was in these words : " Eesolved, that 
the flag of the thirteen United States be thirteen stripes, alternate red 
and white; that the union be thirteen stars, in a blue field, represent- 
ing a new constellation." 

4. For nearly a year before the surrender of Burgoyne, three com- 
missioners from Congress, Dr. Franklin, Silas Deane and Arthur Lee, 
had been urging France to acknowledge the independence of the 
United Colonies. When intelligence was received in Paris of that 
important event, the solicitations of the commissioners were renewed, 
and finally with success. 

5. A treaty of alliance and commerce, between the two nations, 
was signed February 6, 1778. By the treaty, neither of the two 

Chap. CXI.— 1. What was done by Consrress in 1777? 2. What was a prominent 
article of the confederation ? Describe the national flag. 4. What of Dr. Franklin and 
the commissioners Deane and Lee ? 



EVACUATION OF PHILADELPHIA. 23T 

powers was to make war or peace without the formal consent of the 
other. This alliance with France, with the previous and subsequent 
assistance of La Fayette, proved, in the end, of the highest importance 
to the United States. 

6. A treaty of peace was also made during the year 1777, between 
the states of South Carolina and Georgia and the Cherokee Indians. 
This was another highly important measure to both parties. By this 
treaty the Cherokees ceded to South Carolina more than three mil- 
lion acres of their lands. 

7. At the close of this eventful year, 1777, Washington and his army 
retired, for winter-quarters, to Valley Forge, a deep and rugged hollow, 
twenty miles north-west from Philadelphia. On the 18th of December 
they began to build huts. These were sixteen by fourteen feet, and 
were made to accommodate twelve men each. They were so numer- 
ous that when the encampment was completed, it had the appearance 
of a town, with streets and avenues. 

8. Troops from each particular state had their quarters together, in 
this temporary village of log-huts, and here they suffered together, 
for it was a winter of the utmost severity; thousands had no blankets, 
and were obliged to spend the nights in trying to get warm, rather 
than in sleeping. They also suffered greatly, at times, for want of 
food. 



CHAPTEE CXII. 



Period of the Pevolutionaky War, Continued. — Evacu- 
ation of Philadeljyhia and Battle of Monmouth. 

1. The British kept possession of Philadelphia this winter and the 
following spring ; and although AVashington's camp was within three 
or four hours' march of the city, no attempt was made to molest him. 
Foraging parties went up, it is true, and committed depredations, but 
they sometimes suffered severely for their temerity. 

2. The British troops in the United States were now about thirty- 
three thousand, of whom nineteen thousand five hundred were at 
Philadelphia, ten thousand five hundred in New York, and three 
thousand in Ehode Island. The American army did not exceed 
fifteen thousand ; of whom more than eleven thousand were at Valley 

5. What treaty of alliance was signed in 1778? 6. What other treaty was made in 
1777? 7. Where did Washington's army winter? Describe the encampment. 8. De- 
scribe the sufferings of the troops? 

Chap. CXII.— 1. What of the British in regard to Philadelphia? 2. Number of their 
troops? What of the Amerii-au army? Upon what had Congress resolved? 



238 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

Forge. Congress liad, indeed, resolved on raising forty thousand nevr 
troops ; but the resohition liad not yet been carried into effect. 

3. About the first of May, Washington called a council of war, on 
the subject of attacking the British in Philadelphia. Such a measure 
was at length decided to be inexpedient. The wisdom of this decision 
was soon evident ; for it was found that they had not only greatly 
underrated the numbers of the British, but that these were about to 
leave the city of their own accord. 

4. On the 18th of June, 1778, the British evacuated Philadelphia, 
and marched through New Jersey toward New York. On the 28th, 
when they had advanced as far as Mon'-mouth court-house*, sixty- 
four miles north from Philadelphia, they found themselves attacked 
by the American army, under the command of Generals Charles Lee, 
Greene, La Fayette, Wayne, and Washington himself. 

5. In the beginning of the attack, the American army was thrown 
into confusion by the sudden, unexpected and unnecessary retreat of 
General Lee, from a post which had been assigned him. But, by the 
exertions of Washington and his able coadjutors, order was again 
restored, and the battle vigorously sustained till dark, when it was re- 
solved by the Americans to suspend their operations till next morning. 

6. They lay on their arms all night, in the field of battle. Even 
Washington slept in his cloak, under a tree, in the midst of his sol- 
diers, determined to renew the battle at the returning dawn of day. 
In the mean time, however, the British disappeared, and with so much 
silence, that their departure had not been suspected. 

7. In this battle of Monmouth, both parties, as they had often done 
before, claimed the victory ; yet both were very great sufferers. The 
Americans had about seventy killed and one hundred and sixty wound- 
ed. The British lost, in killed, wounded, and prisoners, three hundred 
and fifty-eight. During this day, and on their previous march, one 
thousand more had also deserted them. 

8. Among the slain of the British was Colonel Monckton, a most 
valuable officer, and one greatly beloved. It is said by the British 
historians, that, in the midst of the confusion and danger of the battle, 
the troops dug a grave for him with their bayonets, and " placed over 
Idra, with their hands, the earth they had first moistened with their 
tears." 

3 Upon what dirt the council of war decide in regard to attacking Philadelphia? 4. 
When did the British leave Philadelphia? Where and by whom were they attaclced on 
tlie 28th June? 5. How were the Americans thrown into confusion? 6. Describe the 
army ai night. What of the British? 7. What was the loss on each side at the battle 
of Monmouth? 8. Describe the death and burial of Colonel Monclitun. 

* Monmouth in now called Freehold^ which consists of a small village, eighteen miles 
south-east from New Brunswick, New Jersey. 



GENERAL CHARLES LEE. 239 

9. The day of the battle was excessively hot — one of the hottest 
ever knov^^n in the month of June. Fifty-nine of the British soldiers, 
and several Americans, perished, without a wound, from the com- 
bined eifects of extreme heat and fatigue, and drinking too much cold 
water. 

10. One anecdote deserves to be remembered here. In the begin- 
ning of the battle of Monmouth, as one Molly Pitcher was carrying 
water from a spring to her husband, who was employed in loading and 
firing a cannon, the husband was suddenly killed before her eyes. An 
officer came along and ordered the vacant cannon to be put out of the 
way. To his great astonishment, however, Molly took her husband's 
post, and performed faithfully its duties ; and Congress, as a reward, 
gave her half-pay for life. 

11. This is not the only instance of female patriotism which occurred 
during the war of the Revolution. Not long after the battle of Lex- 
ington, the females of Bristol county, Pennsylvania, resolved to raise 
and equip a whole regiment of soldiers at their own expense, and 
even to arm such as were unable to arm themselves. One of their 
number presented the colors their own hands had wrought, and made 
an eloquent address. 



CHAPTER CXIII. 

Period of the Revolutionary War, Continued. — Life 
and Character of General Charles Lee. 

1. General Lee was very much blamed by Washington for his 
conduct in the battle of Monmouth, not only at the time, but after- 
ward. Indeed, he was tried by a court-martial, who found him guilty 
of disobeying orders, misbehaving before the enemy, and treating 
Washington, his commander-in-chief, with disrespect. His sentence 
was suspension from the army for one year. 

2. General Lee was born in North Wales, and became an officer, as 
it is said, at the age of eleven years. He served early in America^ 
and was with General Abercrombie at his unsuccessful assault on 
Ticonderoga, where he was wounded. At a period still later than 
this he served under General Burgoyne, in Portugal. 

3. When the quarrel began to arise between Great Britain and 

9. From what cause did many soldiers die ? 10. Tell the story of Molly PJtcher. 11 
What was done by the women of Bristol county ? 

Chap. CXIII.— What happened respecting General Charles Lee? 2, 8. Give some ac- 
count of him ? 



240 



HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES 



America, Lee was oa the side of the colonies, and wrote in their favor. 

After this, he 
spent several 
years wander- 
ing over Europe, 
until about the 
year 1774, when, 
having killed an 
Italian officer in 
a duel, he was 
obliged to fly. 
Coming to New 
York, Congress 
made him at 



once a major- 
general. 

4. In Decem- 




GENERAL LEE BEFORE THE COURT-MARTIAL. 



ber, 1776, while 
marching through New Jersey to join Washington, as he lay carelessly 
at a considerable distance from the main body of the army, he was 
seized by the British, put on horseback, and carried to New York. 
He was kept a prisoner by the British, and sometimes very ill-treated, 
till the surrender of Burgoyne, when he was exchanged. 

5. His suspension from the army for a year, for his misconduct at 
Monmouth, finished his career as a military man. He might indeed 
have again engaged in the war at the end of that time, had he been a 
true patriot, but such he seems not to have been. He wrote a pam- 
phlet, in which, besides defending his own conduct, he took it upon 
himself to abuse Washington. 

6. There is little doubt that Lee, who was proud, selfish and ambi- 
tious, envied Washington, and secretly sought to diminish his influ- 
ence, in order to elevate himself. Yet he was, for the most part, a 
good military officer, as well as a fine scholar, and few men in the 
army had more capacity than he. 

7. His abuse of Washington led to a duel with Colonel Laurens, 
in which the latter received a wound. After this Lee retired to his 
estate in Virginia, where he lived alone, in a miserable hovel, without 
windows or plastering, amusing himself with his books and his dogs 
lie died at a public house in Philadelphia, in the year 1782. 



4. What happened to him in 1776 ? 5. What did he do after his suspension from the 
army ? C\ What ie sufiposed to have actuated him in abusinsr Washington ? 7. "What of 
a duel between Lee and Colonel Laurens? How did Lee end his days? 



EVENTS IN RHODE ISFiANl). 



241 




GENERAL SULLIVAN. 



CHAPTER CXIY. 

Period of the Revolutionary War, Continued.— ^^67i^,s 
i?i Rhode Island. 

1. On the first of Jnl}^ 1778, the very day on which the British 
troops, in their retreat from Pliiladelphia, reached New York, Count 
d'Estaing, with a Frencli fleet of twelve ships of the line, six frigates, 
and four thousand men, arrived off the coast of the United States, in 
the hope of attacking the British fleet in the Delaware River or Ches- 
apeake Bay. 

2. But he was a little too late to engage them at the south, for they 
had just sailed for New York. By the advice of Washington, d'Estaing 
proceeded to the north, to assist in a plan which had been formed for 
expelling the British from Rhode Island, He arrived, with his fleet, at 
Newport, July 25th. 

3. In the mean time, the American army, to the number of ten 



Chap. CXIV.- 

purpose ? 
21 



-1. What of Count d'Estaing? 2, Where did he sail, and for what 



242 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STAT^.S. 

thonsund men, iinder Generals Sullivan and Greene, Lad been collected 
together at or near Providence. Here Genei-al Sullivan and Count 
d'Estaing laid a plan together to take Newport; but, just before they 
were ready for the onset, a British fleet appeared in sight, and 
d'Estaing sailed out to make an attack. 

4. A violent storm came on, wdiich scattered both fleets, and so 
crippled the French as to prevent an engagement. Meanwhile, 
General Sullivan, in expectation of the arrival of the French fleet, and 
unable to wait longer, crossed on the 9th of August to Rhode Island, 
with nine thousand men, and on the 14th besieged Newport. 

5. The French fleet at length made its appearance, but, instead of 
coming to the aid of General Sullivan, sailed to Boston, to refit. Thi.s 
was a sad disappointment to the Americans, and General Sullivan 
found it expedient, on the 28th of August, to raise the siege, and 
retire to his first position, at the north end of the island. 

6. The British troops, about six thousand strong, taking advantage 
of his retreat, went out against him the next day, and a long and severe 
battle ensued. The British, after having lost about two hundred and 
fixty men, retreated. The American loss was considerable, but not 
RO great as that of the British. 

Y. The next day, a brisk cannonading was kept up on both sides, 
but there was no sharp conflict. At this juncture General Sullivan 
received a letter from Washington, informing him that a large body 
of British troops had just left New York, probably for the relief of 
Newport ; upon which it was determined to retreat from the island. 

8. The retreat was conducted with great skill, and w^as accomplished 
di\ring the night of the 30th of August. It was, undoubtedly, a 
lucky escape ; for Sir Henry Clinton, with four thousand men, arrived 
next day, and a little longer stay on the island would probably have 
been fatal. General Sullivan's troops were chiefly raw recruits and 
militia, not yet inured to war. 

9, The British troops from New York, not being wanted at Rhode 
Island, proceeded along the coast of Massachusetts to New Bedford 
and Martha s Vineyard. Their avowed object was to seize the Amer- 
ican privateers, which were known to be in the habit of resorting to 
New Bedford: but they did not scruple to burn stores, houses, 
mills, barns, etc. At Fair Haven they received a repulse, and were 
glad to retreat. 

3. Where was the American army assembled? 4. What effect had the storm on the 
two fleets? What did General Sullivan do? .'>. How did the French fleet disappoint the 
Americans? 6. What did the British troops then do? 7 What did General Sullivan 
hear from Washington? What was determined? 8. What of the retreat? Why was 
their escape a fortunate one? 9. How did the British troops doav occupy themselves? 
What happened at Fair Haven? 



TRUMBULL. THE ARTIST. 



243 



CHAPTEK CXY. 

Pp:riod of the Revolutionary War, Contls^ued. — Tntm- 
huU^ the Artist 

1, One excellent young officer, who was very active in the American 

army, under General Sullivan, 
during this period of the war 
in Rhode Island, deserves 
something more than a mere 
passing notice. The person 
referred to was Major John 
Trumbull, of Connecticut ; 
afterwards Colonel Trumbull, 
the celebrated painter. 

2. Young Trumbull was first 
introduced to the army as an 
adjutant of militia, under Gen- 
eral Spencer, of Connecticut, 
a relation of Governor Trum- 
bull, his father. It was soon 
after the battle of Lexington. 
The regiment to which he be- 
longed being attached to Gen- 
eral Thomas's division of the army, was stationed at Roxbury. 

3. Here they were sometimes annoyed by the fire of the enemy ; 
this was especially the fact on the day of the battle of Bunker's Hill. 
Hearing the firing that day, General Spencer's regiment was drawn 
up in full view of the British troops, posted on the Keck; upon 
which the latter opened a fire on them. Most of the balls passed over 
their heads ; one of them, however, came so near a soldier standing 
by Trumbull, that, without being touched by it, he fell. 

4. Trumbull thought the soldier was only frightened, and bade him 
get up ; but he said he was not able, and that he should die. The 
soldiers took him to the surgeon, but tliere was no wound, nor the 
slightest bruise. And yet he died. The heart and large vessels near it 
were full of thick, dark blood. He was evidently killed by the force 
— the wind^ as it is called — of the ball. 




COLONEL TRUMBULL. 



Chap. CXV.— 1. Wh.at of John Trumbull? 2. How was he first intro-lucccl into the 
army? Where was he stationed? 3. Describe the situation of the troops on the Keck. 
4. What of the soldier and the cannon-ball? 



244 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

5. Soon after this, Washington was desirous of obtaining a correct 
plan of the enemy's works about the Neck. As Major Trumbull 
was known to be apt at drawing, a brother of his in the army advised 
him to take this opportunity of introducing himself to the favorable 
notice of the American commander ; and he profited by the sugges- 
tion. 

G. By creeping along under cover of the fences and high grass, he 
could approach so near as to sketch their works with a good deal of 
accuracy. A British deserter came into camp about this time, and 
gave Washington the desired information ; but Trumbull's drawings 
were also consulted, and found to agree with the soldier's story. Major 
Trumbull was, soon after this, made Washington's second aide-de- 
camp. 

7. On going to New York with Washington, soon after the British 
left Boston, he accepted the office of adjutant, with the rank of col- 
onel, to General Gates, at the north, and was with him till after the 
surrender of Burgoyne. Ilis services in the army were greatly en- 
hanced by his skill in di-awing, and were appreciated by the officers 
and the public. 

8. After this he was a short time with Washington again, not long 
after his success at Trenton ; but was soon sent out with General Arnold 
to Rhode Island. He remained there till March, 1777, when he left 
the army, and returned to his father's, at Lebanon, Connecticut. Some 
time in the course of the year, -he went to Boston, to perfect himself 
in the art of painting. 

9. When the Americans began to plan an attack on Newport, 
Colonel Trumbull left Boston, and again entered the army as a volun- 
teer aide to General Sullivan. After the army had- crossed over to the 
north end of Rhode Island, and was skirmishing with the enemy, he 
was employed more than once in the most dangerous services ; which, 
however, he performed with the greatest courage and faithfulness. 

10. One day when the skirmishing had begun early in the morning, 
and Trumbull, in the discharge of his duty, was carrying an order to 
one of the officers, the wind blew off his hat. As he did not think 
it safe to dismount for the sake of a hat, he tied a white handkerchief 
round his head, and wore it all day. 

11. " Being mounted," says he, " on a superb bay horse, in a summer 
(h-ess of nankeen, with this headdress, never was aide-de-camp ex- 
posed more to danger than I was, during that entire day, from daylight 



5. What did Washington wish to obtain? 6. What did Trnmbull do for Washington? 
7. What office did he hold iindiT General Gates? 8. Where did he next go ? When did 
he leave the army? 9. When does he again appear upon the field? 10. Tell the story 
of Trumbull when his hat blew off. 11. Give hi.s account of his perils and his escape. 



MASSACRE AT WYOMING. 245 

to dusk." Yet he escaped without the slightest injury. "1 thank 
thee," he adds, "O, thou Most High, for thou hast covered my head in 
the day of battle!" 

12. This interesting young man left the army again immediately 
after General Sullivan's retreat, and returned home to Connecticut. One 
more anecdote concerning him will be hereafter given in connection 
with the account of the capture and execution of Major Andre. 



CHAPTER CXYI. 

Period of the Revolutionaky War, ConrrNTJED. — Mas- 
sacre at Wyoming, 

1. The savages on the western frontier, during the year 1778, were 
exceedingly troublesome. There was a beautiful settlement on the 
eastern branch of the Susquehannah River, comprising four townships, 
each five miles square, and so thickly peopled that, according to some 
statements, it had already furnished one thousand men to the con- 
tinental army. 

2. This district of Wy'-o-ming* was settled by Connecticut people, 
who carried with them their industrious habits, and were very pros- 
perous and happy. They lived in the shade of their own forest-trees 
in summer ; and in winter, by their own bright and warm firesides. 
Their barns were filled with grain and corn, and their green pastures, 
by the river banks, were spotted with sheep. 

3. Excited, as is supposed, by the tories, the Indians fixed an evil 
eye on these settlers ; but, to prevent suspicion, first sent messages of 
peace and friendship. Suspicion, however, was now raised, and the 
settlers applied to Washington for an armed force to protect them, but 
it was too late. Early in July, four hundred Indians, with more than 
twice that number of tories and half-blood Englishmen, came upon 
the settlement and destroyed it. 

4. They were headed by Brandt, a cruel half-breed Indian, and John 
Butler, a tory. The officers only were dressed in British uniform ; tlie 
rest were all painted and dressed like the Indians. The colonists, in 

12. Where did he go after General Sullivan's retreat? 

Chap. CXVL— 1. What of the savages on the frontier? 2. Describe the district of 
Wyoming. 3. What took place between the settlers and the Indians? 4. Who headed 
the savages ? What had the colonists done as a defence against danger ? 

* The name of Wyoming was given to a beautiful valley lying on both sides of the 
Susquehannah, in what is now the county of Lucerne, Pennsylvania. The little village 
of Wyoming, on the western side of the Susquehannah, is situated nearly opposite the 
{)resent town of Wilkesbarre. 
21* 



24:6 HISTOliY OF THE UNITED STATES, 

their apprelieiision of vvliat might luippeii, luid built a few small forts, 
and gathered their families and some of their effects into them. 

5. The savages and savage-looking whites now appeared before one 
of the forts, which was commanded by a cousin of Butler, and de- 
manded its smTender. They persuaded its commander to come out to 
a spot agreed upon, in the woods, for the purpose, as they said, of 
making peace. He accordingly marched to the spot with four hun- 
dred men ; but not an Indian or a tory was to be found there. 

G. They pressed on through the dark paths of the forest, but still 
no one was to be found. At last they saw themselves suddenly sur- 
rounded by the enemy. The savages were in every bush, and sprang 
out upon them with terrible yells. All but sixty of these four hundred 
men were murdered in the most cruel manner, 

7. The enemy now went back to Kingston, the village, and, to strike 
the Americans in the forts with as much fear as possible, iiurled over 
tlie gates to them the reeking scalps of their brothers, husbands, and 
fathers. The distressed people now inquired of Butler, the leader of 
the tories, what terms he would give them. He answered only — " the 
hatchet." 

8. They fought as long as they were able, but the enemy soon en- 
closed the fort with dry wood, and set it on fire. The unhappy people 
within — men, women, and children — all perished in the fearful blaze. 
The whole country was then ravaged, and all the inhabitants who 
could be found were scalped ; the houses, crops, and orchards were 
burned ; and even the tongues of the domestic animals were cut out, 
and the poor creatures left to perish. 

9. This was one of those bloody deeds which the Indians are so apl 
to perpetrate, especially when led on by designing white men. The 
same company of Wyoming murderers committed other acts of violence 
than those above related. They were, however, at length invaded and 
iiumbled, and made willing to remain at peace. 

10. After the treaty, which was at length made with them, the petty 
cliiefs of the New York and Pennsylvania Indians occasionally came 
to the camp to see Washington, whom they called their Great Father. 
Washington, in showing them his army, rode before them on his own 
fine gray war-horse, while they followed on miserable horses, without 
saddles and almc^t without bridles, and wore nothing but dirty 
blankets. 

5. "What did the savages bow do ? How were the Americans deceived ? 6. Describe 
the slaughter. 7. What was then done in the village? 8. What became of the inhabit- 
ants? 9. What of these bloody murderers? 10. What was Washington called by the 
chiefs ? 



THE WAR IN GEORGIA. 247 

CIIAPTKK CXYII. 
Period of the Revolutionary War, Continued. — Events 

in Georgia. 

1. There was little severe fighting this year, 1778, between the 
regular troops of the two great contending armies, except what has 
been mentioned. The only additional movements, worthy of notice, 
were the invasion of Georgia from two very different points — Florida 
and New York. 

2. During the summer, two parties of British regulars and American 
refugees made a sudden and rapid incursion from Florida into Georgia. 
One of the parties, advancing to a fort in Sunbury, twenty-eight miles 
south-west from Savannah, summoned it to surrender ; but, on receiv- 
ing from the commander the laconic answer, "Come and take it," they 
abandoned the enterprise. 

3. The other party went toward Savannah, but after meeting with 
many attacks from the militia as they passed along, and hearing of the 
failure of the other party, they returned. In their return, they burned 
the church and nearly every house in the village of Medway, and 
carried off the slaves, cattle, and other property. 

4. This was followed by an expedition from Georgia and South 
Carolina of two thousand men, chiefly militia, into Florida. They 
proceeded to a fort on the river St. Mary's, which they destroyed, and 
then, after some skirmishing, advanced toward St. Augustine. But a 
mortal sickness having attacked the troops and swept away one-fourth 
of them, the survivors returned. 

5. The second invasion of Georgia was undertaken much later in 
the season than the former. On the 27th of November, Colonel Camp- 
bell, with two thousand British troops, left New York, and in three 
weeks landed at the mouth of the Savannah Eiver. Near Savannah 
were six hundred regular American troops and a few militia. 

6. The British, being about to make an attack, were shown by a 
negro a private path leading to the rear of the American forces, of 
which they availed themselves. The latter, finding the enemy both in 
their front and rear, attempted to fly, but were mostly taken or slain, 
and the fort and town of Savannah fell into British hands. 

7. The victory at Savannah was followed up as closely as possible 
by the British troops, and the fort at Sunbury soon surrendered to 
them and the Florida forces. The combined troops of New York and 

Chap, CXYII.— 1. What of the invasion of Georgia? 2. Describe the incursions into 
Oeorgia. 8. What of the other party? 4. What of the expedition into Florida ? 5. De- 
scribe the second invasion of Georgia. 6. Who betrayed Savannah into the hands of the 
British ? 



2i8 



HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 



St. Augustine now held, and for some time continued to hold, posses- 
sion of the state of Georgia. 

8. Such of the Americans as had heen taken prisoners during the 
war between Britain and the United States, and had not yet been ex- 
changed, were kept in prison-ships, in New York and elsewhere, and 
in jails in England. Those in prison-ships often suffered extremely, 
and many died of their sufferings and by disease. Great and just com- 
plaint, in regard to their treatment, was made both at liome and abroad. 

9. Just at the close of the year 1Y78, a meeting was held in London 
for the relief of the American prisoners confined in British jails, of 
which there were about one thousand. Subscriptions were opened, 
both in London and in the country. By January 10, 1779, the subscrip- 
tions amounted to three thousand eight hundred and fifteen pounds 
seventeen shillings and sixpence, or nearly nineteen thousand dollars. 
These proceedings, on the part of the people of the hostile country, 
are sufficient evidences of the inhumanity suffered by the American 
prisoners; while it may also be taken as evidence of the sensibility of 
the British people to these enormities. 



CHAPTER CXYIII. 

Period of the Revolutionaky Wak, Continued. — TA^ 
British at Charleston. 
1. Near the close of 1778, General Lincoln had been appointed to 

take command of the army 
at the south. He was an ex- 
cellent officer ; and having been 
next in command to General 
Gates, in the movements 
against Burgoyne in the north, 
was there active, faithful and 
successful in all his operations. 
2. Very early in the year 
1779, he proceeded to the post 
assigned him. As Georgia was 
now overrun by the British 
troops, he took his stand on 
the northern side of the Sa- 
vannah River. Soon after his 
arrival, a detachment of fifteen 

7. Who held possession of the state of Georgia? 8. What of the American prisoners 
during the Revolutionary war? 9. What was done in London ? 
Chap. CXVIII.— 1. What cail you say of General Lincoln? 




GENERAL LINCOLN. 



THE BRITISH AT CHAR LEST OX. 249 

Luudred North Carolina militia and sixty regular troo{>s, under Gen- 
eral Ash, having ci-ossed the river, were defeated by General Prevost 
with great loss. 

3. But General Lincoln, nothing daunted, marched his army to- 
ward Augusta, the head-quarters of General Prevost. His whole 
forces now amounted to five thousand. General Prevost, with twenty- 
four hundred men, left Augusta about the same time for Charleston^ 
As Lincoln supposed this to be a feint to draw him from his design, 
he continued his march. 

4. When the British were about half way from Augusta to Charles- 
ton they halted two or three days, which gave time for putting the 
latter in a state of defence. All the houses in the suburbs were burnt, 
cannon were placed around the city at proper intervals, and a force 
of three thousand three hundred men were assembled for its defence. 

5. The enemy reached the city and summoned it to surrender on 
the 12th of May. The inhabitants contrived to spend the day in 
parleying, before they gave an answer, that they might gain time. 
When, however, they were told that if they surrendered, it must be 
as prisoners of war, the negotiation terminated, and they prepared for 
an assault. 

6. To their surprise, however, no attack was made, and the British, 
during the following night, withdrew their forces, and, crossing Ash- 
ley Ferry, encamped near the sea. General Lincoln soon arrived, 
and stationed his forces near Charleston, unwilling to risk a general 
battle if he could help it. 

7. However, he was not disposed to be idle, and learning the weak 
state of a British fort at Stone Ferry, he advanced against it with 
twelve hundred men. The Americans had the advantage in the fight, 
though they thought it necessary to retreat soon afterward. General 
Prevost, about the same time, left the vicinity of Charleston, and his 
main army retreated to Savannah. 



2. Where did he station himself? What battle was now fought? 8. What of General 
Lincoln's forces? What of Prevost? 4, What preparations were made at Charleston 
for defence ? 5. What of the inhabitants of Charleston ? 6. What did the British now do ? 
Vv'hat of Genersil Lincoln? 7. What engagement was there at Stone Ferrv? GeneraJ 

i'lCVOSt? 



250 HISTORY OF THE UillTED STATES 



CHAPTEE CXIX. 

Period of the Revolutionary War, Continued. — Attack 

of the ATnGricaiis on Savannah. 

1. Count cI'Estaing, after his fleet had refitted in Boston, sailed 
for the West Indies, where he remained till the next snnimer. He 
arrived on the coast of Georgia so unexpectedly to the British, that, 
before they were ready to meet him, he had captured one man-of-war 
of fifty guns, and three frigates. 

2. General Lincoln had long expected him, and when it was known 
that he had arrived, he marched with his regular troops and a con- 
siderable body of Carolina and Georgia militia to Savannah. Before 
he arrived, however, d'Estaing was there, and had summoned th-a 
place to surrender. 

3. General Frevost, on receiving the summons, asked for a day to 
consider it, which was granted. In the mean time, however, receiv- 
ing a reinforcement of eight hundred men, his courage was so much 
increased that he determined to defend himself to the last. 

4. On the morning of October 4, the American and French forces 
laid siege to the place, and, on the 9th, a direct assault was made, 
which was repulsed. The invaders rallied, and a desperate battle was 
kept up for some time, when the French and Americans were obliged 
to retire with a very heavy loss. Of the former, six hundred and 
thirty-seven were killed or wounded; of the latter, two hundred and 
forty-one. 

5. Count Pulaski, the Polish nobleman, was wounded in the battle, 
and soon afterward died, as we have already stated. He was one of 
those who carried off Stanislaus, king of Poland, from his capital, and 
who, in consequence of this act, after the king made his escape, were 
proscribed as outlaws. 

6. The attack on Savannah was doubtless ill-judged and premature. 
It was hastened on by d'Estaing. Had the siege been conducted more 
slowly it might have been successful. After the siege was raised, 
nearly all the American troops went to theip homes, and d'Estaing 
re-embarked and sailed for Europe. 



Chap. CXIX.— 1. What of Count d'Estaing after refitting his fleet ? 2. What did Gen- 
eral Lincoln on the arrival of d'Estaing? 3. How was General Prevost encouraged? 
4. Describe the siege and assault. What was the French and American loss? 5. What 
can yon say of Count Pulaski ? fi. Was the attack on Savannah well timed ? What of the 
American and French troops? 



EVENTS IN CONNECTICUT 



'251 




GENERAL PUTNAM. 



OHAPTEE CXX. 

Period of the IIe:volutionary War, Continued, — EvenU 

in Connecticut. — General Patnarri. 

1. The northern department of the American army had chiefly 
wintered, 1778-1779, near tlie Hudson — some on the New Jersey side, 
and some on the other. Two brigades were as high up as West Point. 
Three brigades were also quartered near Danbury, in Connecticut. 

2. Thus arranged with regard to New York, they could not only 
watch the movements of the enemy, but keep up a communication 
with each other, and be able to act in concert, should it be necessary. 
General McDougall commanded in the Highlands, and General Putnam 



Chap. CXX. — 1. How was the northern American army stationed during the winter of 
177S-1779? 2. What advantages were derived from this aiTangement ? Who com- 
i«n.Tided in the Highlands ? Who at Danbury ? 



252 HISTORY OP THE UNITED STATES. 

at Danbury. The British forces in New York were commanded ])y 
General Clinton. 

3. In the spring of 1779, a British force was sent to ravage the 
coasts of Virginia. They destroyed every thing in their way — villages, 
shipping, and stores. They also seized on large quantities of tobacco. 
Being asked by the Virginians what sort of a war this was, their 
general replied, that " all rebels must be so treated." 

4. Indeed, it seemed to be a leading object with the British, this 
year, to distress and impoverish the Americans as much as possible, 
in order, as they themselves said, "to render the colonies of as little 
use as possible to each other in their new connections." They plun- 
dered, consumed, and destroyed as much as they could, both at the 
north and at the south. 

5. A month or two after the foregoing ravages were committed 
in Virginia, General Tryon was sent out to make similar ravages on 
the coast of Connecticut. In expectation of an attack, the militia 
of Fairfield were mustered and in arms. Tryon came to the spot, 
ordered them to surrender, and gave them an hour to consider his 
proposal ; but, in the mean time, laid most of the town in ashes. 

6. At New Haven, all possible damage was done. The harbor was 
covered with feathers poured out from the beds. Desks, trunks, 
chests and closets were broken open ; the women were robbed of 
their buckles, rings, bonnets and aprons. East Haven was afterward 
burned, and Norwalk shared a similar fate. 

7. Near Stamford, the British, with some fifteen hundred men, 
came suddenly upon General Putnam, who had no other means of 
defence than one hundred and fifty militia and two pieces of cannon. 
But with these alone, this brave oflficer was almost a match for them 
for some time. At last, however, he ordered his men to retreat to a 
neighboring swamp. 

8. For himself, being hard pressed, he rode at full gallop down a 
steep rock. Nearly one hundred steps had been hewn in it, like a 
flight of stairs, for the people to ascend in going to church. The 
cavalry, who were pursuing him, stopped at the brink and discharged 
their pistols, but dared not follow him. He escaped with a bullet-hole 
through his hat. 

9. This year, also, in July, a fleet of thirty -seven small vessels and 
fifteen hmidred militia, under Generals Wadsworth and Lowell, was 
fitted out from Boston to drive the British from the Penobscot River, 

3. What was done by the British in 1779? 4. W^hat seemed to bo a leading object 
with them ? 5. What of General Tryon ? 6. What ravages were committed at New 
Haven ? East Haven and Norwalk ? 7. What was done near Stamford ? 8. Describe 
Putnam's escape. 9. What fleet was fitted out in Boston, and for what purpose? 



ANECDOTE OF LA FAYETTE. 253 

in Maine, where tliey had collected and built a fort. This was at a 
place called Bagaduce, now Oastine. The expedition, however, did 
not succeed. 



CHAPTER CXXL 

Pekiod of the Revolutionary War, Continued. — Anec- 
dote of La Fayette. 

1. An anecdote of La Fayette, which belongs to this year, de- 
t^^i^H!, serves to be preserved in con- 

nection with the history of the 
United States. He had intended 
to make a visit to France to- 
ward the close of the year 1778, 
but had been detained several 
months by sickness. Again he 
was detained a while longer at 
Boston, to wait for the frigate 
Alliance to be got ready, in 
which he was to sail. 

2. The government of Massa- 
chusetts o^ered to complete the 
number of men which were ne- 
cessary to man the Alliance, by 
impressment — a measure that 

LA PAYETTE. '^ 

had been sometimes resorted to 
during the war; but La Fayette was too benevolent to permit this. 
At last, the crew was made up by other and more merciful means. 

3. The Somerset, a British sixty-four-gun ship, had been wrecked 
on the coast of Xew England, and part of her men had found their 
way to Boston. Some of these men offered to go in the Alliance. 
There w^ere volunteers also from among the prisoners. Added to 
these were a few French seamen. 

4. "With this motley crew, English, French and American, and stran- 
gers in great part to each other and to the ship, La Fayette, in simple 
but unwise confidence, trusted himself, and the vessel sailed the 11th 
of January. They had a tempestuous passage, but nothing happened 
worth relating till they were within two days^ sail of the English 
coast. 

Chap. CXXL— 1. What did La Fayette intend in 17T8? 2. What did the government 
rtflfor to do? Did La Fayette accept theii- offer ? 3. How were the men collected to man 
the Alliance? 4. Describe the departure of La Fayette. 
22 




254 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

5. Here a conspiracy was formed by the English part of the crew, 
amounting to seventy or eighty men, to kill the officers, seize the 
vessel, and take it into an English port. The British government had 
in fact passed a law, some time before this, to encourage acts of mu- 
tiny, by the oifer of a reward to all such crews as would run away 
with American ships. 

6. The intentions of the conspirators appear to have been of the 
most cruel nature. The work of death was to have been begun pre- 
cisely at four o'clock of the afternoon of February 2d. The signal to 
begin the work was the cry of " Sail ho!" which it was well known 
would bring the officers and passengers upon the quarter-deck, where 
they could be seized in a body. 

7. The captain was to have been put into a boat, without food, 
water, oars or sails, heavily ironed, and turned loose upon the ocean. 
The gunner, carpenter and boatswain were to have been killed on the 
spot. The marine officer and surgeon were to have been hanged and 
quartered, and their bodies cast into the sea. 

8. The sailing-master was to have been cut into morsels and thrown 
overboard. The lieutenants were to have had their choice, either to 
navigate the vessel to the nearest British port, or to walk overboard. 
The passengers were to have been confined and carried into England 
as prisoners of war. 

9. Among the crew was an excellent young man, whom the muti- 
neers took, from his accent, to be an Irishman, but who had become, 
in fact, an American. They had proposed their plan to him, and he 
had learned their whole secret. About an hour before the massacre 
was to have taken place,, he revealed the plot to La Fayette and the 
captain, who immediately took measures to prevent it. 

10. The officers and passengers, as well as such other men as could be 
trusted, were informed of what was going on. A few minutes before 
four o'clock, the officers, passengers, and American seamen rushed on 
deck, with drawn swords and other weapons, and thirty or forty of 
the mutineers were seized and put in irons. The crime was confessed, 
the mutineers were secured, and the ship soon arrived at Brest, in 
France. It was proposed to punish them ; but the noble-minded 
La Fayette insisted on exchanging them as mere prisoners of war. 

5. What of a conspiracy? What had the British government done? 6. Describe the 
plan of the conspirators. 7, S. What was to have been done with the officers of the 
ship? MHiat was to have been the fate of the passengers? 9. How was the infauxms 
plot defeated? 10. What maans were taken to disarm the mutineers? Where did the 
ship land ? What was done with the prisoners? 



CONTINENTAL MONEY 



255 




'X'HISEilli entitles tb 
„5=^Bearer to tpccIvc 
STX SEANTSH MILLED 
DOLLARS , or -fh* 
yahmtkcrexyf itlGOLD 
1- SILVER ■ acpordiTrfTo 
uBfsolation of COX- 
GKESS pnhliMat Phi 

0/ G/icmnPrhy 







o^t) 



CONTINENTAL MONEY. 



CHAPTER CXXn. 

Pp:kiod of the Revolutionary Wak, Continced. — Co7i- 
tinental Money. 

1. The year 1779 was less distinguished for splendid or brilliant 
achievements by either of the two great contending nations, than any 
year since the commencement of the war; and this, too, notwith- 
standing the alliance of the United States with France. One cause 
of this, among many others, was the troubles which now began to be 
experienced in respect to paper money. 

2. The history of money, in connection with the United States, is 
quite curious. Going back to 1643, we find the general court of Mas- 
sachusetts ordering that waminimi'teog^ or the Indian wampum, should 
pass current in the payment of debts, to the amount of forty shillings, 
except taxes ; the white wampumpeog at eight for a penny, the black 
at four. 

3. The first mint for coining money in New England was erected 
in 1652. The money coined was shillings, sixpences and threepences. 
The law ordered that they should have Massachusetts and a tree on one 
side, and New England and the value of tlie coin on the other. This 
currency continued not only to be used but to be coined, for thirty 
years or more. 

Chap. CXXTI.— 1. Why was the year 1779 less distinguished than many others had 
been? 2. What was 'jsed as money in 1643? 8. When was the first mint in New 
England established? What was the money coined? 



256 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

4. Bills of credit, or paper money, appear to have been issued bj 
Carolina, in the year 1706. Soon after the emission, the value of the 
money fell one-third: one hundred and fifty pounds of Carolina cur- 
rency being worth only one hundred pounds in English coin. Happily, 
the emission was only eight thousand pounds. However, in 1712, the 
South Carolina legislature issued forty-eight thousand pounds, in these 
bills of credit, to defray the expenses of their Indian wars. 

5. About the year 1691, during the progress of King William's war, 
Massachusetts issued bills of credit to pay the troops. Connecticut, 
New York and New Jersey followed in turn, in 1709, and issued their 
paper money, and for the same reason, viz., to pay the expenses of 
their Indian wars. The legislature of Georgia issued paper bills of 
credit to the amount of seven thousand four hundred and ten pounds 
sterling, in 1760. There were also some other instances in the colonies 
of the same sort. 

6. The first emission of bills of credit by Congress was in June, 
1775. The amount was two millions of dollars. Eighteen months 
afterward, twenty millions of doUars more were issued ; and still later, 
a larger quantity ; in all, three hundred and seventy-five millions. 
The states also issued many millions. In 1780, at least two hundred 
millions of Continental money were in circulation. 

7. The Confederation was indeed pledged to redeem these bills, and 
each colony its proportion of them, by the year 1779. Nevertheless, 
they began to lose their value in 1777, and by the year 1778, the 
period to which, in the progress of our history, we have now arrived, 
five or six dollars of it would pass for one dollar in specie. 

8. But this was only the beginning of its depreciation. In 1779, 
twenty-seven or twenty-eight dollars of it were only worth one of 
hard money, and in 1780 it was fifty or sixty for one. By the middle 
of this year, the bills almost ceased to circulate; and when they did 
circulate, it was at less than a hundredth part of their nominal value, 
sometimes less than the five-hundredth. 

9. Yet Congress had ordered that they should be a lawful tender 
for the payment of debts, at their full nominal value, and the soldiers 
were to be paid in them. Why should not a war be poorly sustained 
with such a miserable public currency? 

10. How could men be raised to fight, even for their homes and 
firesides, when the money in which they were to be paid would not 



4. When was paper money first issued ? W^hat effect had this upon the value of money ? 
What was done in 1712 ? 5. In 1691 ? In 1709 ? In 1760? 6. What was done by Congress 
in June, 1775? What amount was issued? How much continental money was in c'rcula- 
tion in 1780. 7. What was the Confederation pledged to do? What happened in 1777? 
In 1778? 8. Describe the depreciation of these bills. 9, What had Congress ordered? 



CAPTURE OF STONY POINT 257 

support their families? Six months' pay of a soldier, in 1779, would 
not provide bread for his family for a month ; nor the pay of a colonel 
" purchase oats for his horse." 

11. There were many causes which operated to produce this un- 
heard-of depreciation of a currency which the nation was bound to 
redeem. 1, Too much of it w^as issued. 2. The quantity was greatly 
increased by counterfeits and forgeries, 3. It was for the pecuniary 
advantage of public agents — since tliey received a commission pro- 
portioned to the amount of their purchases for the army — to pay high 
prices. 4. There was a doubt of the ability of the states to redeem these 
notes, as well as a distrust of the faith of the states, in respect to their 
redemption. 

12. But whatever the causes may have been, and however promis- 
ing its first effects, no measure of Congress produced more mischief, 
in the end, by weakening and destroying public confidence, than this 
same Continental Money. It may be difficult, however, to say by 
what other means the war could have been sustained. 



CHAPTER GXXIU. 

Period of tiik Revolutionary War, Continued. — Cajp- 
ture of Stony Point and Paulus Hook. 

1. Amid the general paucity of events, there were two brilliant and 
somewhat decisive actions in the vicinity of New York during the year 
1779. One of these was the capture of Stony Point, a strong military 
post on the west bank of the Hudson, forty miles north of New York, 
and guarded by about six hundred British troops. Anxious to regain 
this post, Washington deputed General Wayne, with twelve hundred 
men, chiefly New Englanders, to make the attempt. 

2. General Wayne set out on the 15th of July, and at evening halted 
a mile or two from the fort to make his arrangements. One hundred 
and fifty volunteers, guarded by twenty picked men, were to march in 
front of the rest. They were ordered to proceed in perfect silence, 
with unloaded guns and fixed bayonets. 

3. The attempt was perilous. One disorderly fellow persisted in a 



10. Give some idea of the Insufficiency of this money for support. 11. What were thh 
causes of this depreciation of currency? 12. What of the measures of Congress concern- 
ing Continental money ? 

Chap. CXXIII.— 1. Where is Stony Point? What did Washington do? 2. What of 
General Wayne ? How was the march of the troops arranged ? 

22* 



258 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 




GENERAL WATNE. 



determination to load his gun, for which he was killed by his captain 
on the spot. The fort was defended by a deep swamp, covered with 
water. The troops marched through it, waist deep. The British 
opened upon them a tremendous fire of musketry and artillery ; still 
the Americans were not allowed to fire a gun. 

4. But their success was complete. The fort was carried at the 
point of the bayonet, and its surviving defenders all taken. The Amer- 
icans lost about a hundred men in the onset, of whom seventeen were 
of the twenty picked guards who went in front of the rest. The 
British had sixty-eight killed — the rest surrendering at discretion. 

5. General AYayne w^as among the wounded of the Americans. As 
they were entering the fort, a musket-ball cut a gasli in his forehead, 
lie fell, but rose upon one knee, and said, "Forward, my brave fellows, 
forward!" Then, in a low voice, he said to one of his aides, "Assist 
me; if I die, I will die in the fort!" But the wound proved less 
severe than was at first expected. 



3. What happened as to one of the soldiers ? Describe the attack upon the fort. 4. 
What was the success of th6 Americans? Their loss What of the British loss ? 5. De- 
scribe General Wayne's conduct when woun<led. 



THE SIX NATIONS AND OTHER INDIANS. 2^>i) 

6. Geneml Wayne was a truly brave man. He was at this time 
about thirty -five years of age ; but, though young, he was old in wai 
— having been continually employed in the most active services of his 
country for four years. lie had been in Canada, at Ticonderoga, at 
Brandywine, Germantown, }<Ionmouth, and several other points of 
great hazard and danger. 

7. For this brilliant attack on Stony Point, Congress gave thanks to 
Washington, who contrived it, and a gold medal to Wayne, who exe- 
cuted it. But the army gained, with the fort, something beside mere 
honor. A large quantity of military stores, of which they stood in 
great, indeed absolute, need, fell into their hands. 

8. This successful adventure was followed, in a few days, by another. 
Major Lee, with three hundred men, made a descent ui)on Paulus Hook, 
a British post on the New Jersey shore, opposite New York, which 
he completely surprised and carried, with but two men killed and 
three wounded. 



CHAPTEE CXXIY. 

Period of the Revolutionary War, Continued. — The 
Six Nations and other Indians. 

1. The history of events in the United States for the year 1779 woulJ 
be incomplete without some further accounts of the war with the 
Indians. These, except in the vicinity of Wyoming, were exceedingly 
troublesome. 

2. In April and May of this year, a small body of men from Fort 
Schuyler marched against the Onondaga Indians, and burnt their 
village, consisting of about fifty houses, with a large quantity of 
provisions, without the loss of a single man. They also took thirty-four 
prisoners. 

3. Detached parties of men were also sent out against the Indians 
on the borders of South Carolina, and in the neighborhood of Pitts- 
burg, Pennsylvania. On the frontier of South Carolina, eight Indian 
towns were destroyed; and in the neighborhood of Pittsburg, a num- 
ber of Indian huts and about five hundred acres of corn. 



6. Give some account of General Wayne. 7. "What rewards did Congress give? What 
did the Americans take in the fort ? S. What exploit was performed by Major Lee ? 

Chap. CXXIV.— 1. What of tlie Indians in the United States? 2. What attack was 
made upon the Onondaga Indians? 3. What other attacks were made upon the 
Indians ? 



260 



HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES, 



4. The "Six Nations,''* as they were called, had promised to be 

neutral in the war; hut, ex- 
cept the Oneidas, they be- 
came at length quite trouble- 
some — plundering, burning, 
and murdering. They were 
instigated, no doubt, by the 
British agents. General Sul- 
livan, with apart of the Ame- 
rican army, was at length 
sent out against them. He 
arrived in their country in 
August. 

5. The Indians, aware of 
his approach, had fortified 
themselves after the English 
fashion. They defended them- 
selves most manfully against 
the attack of General Sullivan 
for more than two hours. 
They were, however, finally 
driven fi'om the position, and 
their villages, gardens, corn 
and fruits destroyed. 

6. Still it was in the power 
of detached parties of the Indians to do much mischief. In July, 




RED JACKET, 



A SENECA CHIEF. 



4. What of the "Six Nations?'' Let tbo ijupil give an account of Five Nations from 
the foot-note. Who was sent against them ? 5. How did the Indians defend themselves ? 

* This powerful confederacy consisted originally of the Five Nations^ that is, the 
Seneca, Cayuga, Onondaga, Oneida, and Moliomlc tribes. These were the proper 
Iroquois, and are to be distinguished from the Huron-Iroquois. They all occupied lands 
in Western New York, and the names of towns and counties, at the present day, indicate 
Die region of their settlements. Their gi-eat council-fire was with the Onondagas, and 
their chief village was near the present town of Syracuse. At what time the confeder- 
ation was formed is not known, but it was in existence at the time the French became 
acquainted with them, in 1609. The name of Iroquois was given by the French ; the 
Algonquins called them 3fingos. They were very warlike, and were almost constantly 
engaged in hostile excursions against other savages, as well in the East as tlie South and 
West. 

The r^scaroras, having been defeated by the Carolinians in 1712, migrated to the North, 
and became a member of the confederacy, which from this time has borne the title of the 
Six Nations. They were generally the friends of the British during the revolutionary 
war. They were finally reduced to a state of submission and insignificance. They num- 
bered over forty thousand souls in 1715; but at present do not exceed three or four thou- 
sand Most of thcin are removed west of the Mississippi ; a few. partially civilized, being 
in or near their original sites in Western New York. The celebrated Red Jacket, who 
died in Ift^O, was chief of one of the tribes, the Senocas. 



SURRENDER OF CHARLESTON. 261 

about the time of the Wyoming massacre, Brandt, the half-blood chief, 
with a body of Indians and tories, burnt ten houses and killed forty- 
four men at Minisink settlement, near the Hudson. The bones of those 
who fell there, after w^hitening in the sun forty-three years, were in 
1823 collected and buried with much ceremony. 



CHAPTEK CXXY. 

Period of the Revolutionary War, Continued. — Surren- 
der of Charleston. — Other disastrous Events in the 
South. 

1. The greater part of the American army at the north had win- 
tered, 1779-80, in Morristown, New Jersey. There were, however, 
strong detachments at West Point, and other posts about the Hudson, 
and a body of cavalry in Connecticut. Little was done on either side 
during the winter, which was one of unusual severity. In truth, the 
sufferings of the American army were so great that Washington at 
times thought of disbanding them. 

2. The army for the campaign of 1780 was fixed by Congress at 
thirty-five thousand two hundred and eleven men ; of which each state 
was to furnish its proportion by the first day of April. But it was 
easier to furnish an army on paper than actually to procure the enlist- 
ments. Only ten thousand four hundred men could be actually mus- 
tered in April ; while the British force at New York was seventeen 
thousand three hundred. 

3. Nor was the condition of the American army in some other re- 
spects at all encouraging. Their wages were five months in arrears ; 
their food was scanty, and sometimes bad ; they had no sugar, tea, 
wine, spirits, or medicine; and, worse than all, no prospect before them 
of any thing better. 

4. Gloomy as these circumstances were, how^ever, the spring was 
spent in preparation for war. In April, La Fayette returned from 
France, with the cheering intelligence that a large land and naval force 
might soon be expected from that country. They did not arrive, how- 
ever, till July ; and until their arrival the war at the north was con- 
lined to unimportant skirmishing. 

6. What outrages were committed by Brandt ? 

Chap. CXXV. — 1. Where were the greater part of the American army in the winter of 
1779-17S0? Where were strong detachments? What of suffering ? 2. What of the army 
for thft campaign of 1 780 ? What men were actually raised ? What was the British force ? 
8 What was the condition of the American army? 4. What news was brought by La 
Fayette ? 



262 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

6. But not so at the south. Sir Hemy Clinton, with seven or eight 
thousand men, had landed at Savannah early this year, and sailed from 
that place to attack Charleston, which at the time was defended by 
the commander-in-chief of the army of the south. General Lincoln, and 
Governor Rntledge. He opened his batteries upon the city, April 2d. 

6. The American forces amounted to about five thousand men ; and 
they had four hundred pieces of artillery. But the forces of the enemy 
were much superior, and the siege was carried on with great spirit. 
On the 12th of May, the Americans, finding the fortifications of the 
city mostly beaten down, and various neighboring points of importance 
surrendered to the British, while no hopes of relief were afforded them, 
capitulated, and gave up the place. In the defence near one hundred 
of their number had been slain, and one hundred and forty wounded. 

7. On the 14th of April, while the siege of Charleston was going on, 
a body of American cavalry and militia were surprised by the British 
at Monk's Corner, thirty-two miles north from Charleston, and dis- 
persed. Fort Moultrie also, on Sullivan's Island, had surrendered on 
the 6th of May to the British naval forces. 

8. Another misfortune befell the American army at the south on the 
29th of May. Lord Cornwallis, who commanded a division of the 
British troops near the Santee River, detached a body of his men to 
a place in North Carolina, called the Waxhaws,* and completely cut 
off a corps of four hundred men, under Colonel Bufford ; only one 
hundred effecting their escape. 

9. Nor were these all the misfortunes of the Americans in this 
quarter at this period. The important fort of Ninety-Six, in South 
Carolina, one hundred and fifty miles north-west from Charleston, fell 
into the hands of the enemy, while the country along the Savannah 
was ravaged. Many of the Americans in the south, considering the 
cause of the country as hopeless, joined the royal standard. 

10. The southern American army being now greatly reduced, the 
British found it easy to post garrisons in various parts of Carolina, and 
to regard it as, in effect, conquered. Only four thousand men were 
deemed necessary to complete what they had begun, and with the rest 
of the army Sir Henry Clinton returned to New York. 

11. Meanwhile, the state, though overrun, was very far from beinii; 
conquered. A partisan war was long kept up, sometimes with much 

5. What was taking place at the south? 6. What were the forces of the two parties? 
What did the Americans conclude to do ? 7. Where were a body of Americans surprised 
by the British? What of Fort Moultrie? 8. What was done by Lord Cornwallis? 9. 
What other misfortunes befell the Americans at the south? 10. What did the British 
find it easy to accomplish ? 

* This place, on the Waxhaw Creek, near its entrance into the Wateree or Catawba, 
was about one hundred and fifty miles north-west of Charleston. 



GENERAL GATES. 



263 



spirit. Many gallant exploits were performed, and many triumphs ob- 
tained, by Generals Sumpter, Marion, and others ; so that the British 
could hardly fail to learn that to gain a few victories and to conquer a 
country, were very different things. 



CHAPTEK CXXVI. 

Period of the Pevolutionary War, Continued. — Gates 
Commander of the Southern Army. — Disastrous Battle 
near Camden. — Various Events at the South and at the 
North. — Aiv'ival of the French Fleet and Army under 
Rochambeau. 

1. About this period, General Lincoln was superseded in the com- 
mand Tf the American army 
at the south by General Gates. 
The Baron de Kalb, a brave 
German officer, was second in 
the command. Their troops 
amounted to one thousand 
regular soldiers and three 
thousand militia. 

2. General Horatio Gates 
was an Englishman by birth, 
but had often served in the 
British army in America dur- 
ing the colonial wars. Some- 
where between the years 1763 
and 1770 he removed to Amer- 
ica, and settled in Virginia. In 
1775 he was made a briga- 
dier-general. He continued in 
the army — chiefly at the north 
— till the year 1780, when he 
was transferred to the south. 

3. At the time of the cap- 
ture of Burgoyne, Gates was 
about fifty years of age. His 

success had rendered him extremely popular, while Washington, less 

11. What of Sumpter, Marion, etc.? 

Chap. CXXVI. — 1. What of the American army at the south? Its commanders? 2, 
Give some account of General Gates. 3. What state of feeling was shown respecting 
Gates and Washington? 




COUNT ROCHAMBEAU, 



264 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

fortunate at this juncture, was rather unpopuhir. Eiforts were made to 
remove Washington from the command of the army, and supply his 
place by Gates, but they were as unsuccessful as they were unreasonable. 

4. General Gates marched with his troops from North Carolina 
toward Charleston. On the road, six or seven hundred Virginia militia 
joined him. When near Camden, in South Carolina, one hundred and 
ten miles north-west from Charleston, he was met by Lord Cornwallis 
and two thousand regular troops, who gave him battle. The Virginia 
militia and part of the others threw down their arms and fled at the 
beginning of the fight. The regular soldiers fought bravely, but were 
finally overpowered by numbers. 

5. This battle occurred August 16th, and was exceedingly severe. 
Not only the battle-ground itself, but the fields, roads, and swamps, for 
many miles round, were covered, as it were, with the slain. Of the 
Americans, seven hundred and thirty -two were killed or captured; 
the British loss in killed and wounded was also very heavy. Among 
the slain was the Baron de Kalb, to whose memory Congress ordered 
a monument to be erected. With the remnant of his forces Gates 
rapidly retreated into North Carolina. 

6. Another defeat soon followed. General Sumpter, having taken a 
small fort, with about three hundred prisoners, and a large quantity of 
stores intended for the British army at Catnden, was retreating with 
his booty up the Wateree River, when Colonel Tarleton, with a part 
of the British army, surprised him, rescued the prisoners, and killed, 
wounded, or dispersed his w^hole force. 

7. But, after this long series of reverses, the tide of the southern 
war began to turn. Exasperated by the atrocities committed in North 
Carolina by a detachment of the British, and profligate Americans who 
had joined them, the militia armed themselves as best they could, and 
fell upon them fiercely at a place called King's Mountain.* They 
were defeated, with but little loss on the part of the Americans. No 
less than eight hundred of their best troops were taken prisoners, with 
fifteen hundred stand of arms. Ferguson, the British commander, w^as 
killed. This battle took place October 7th, 1780. 

8. The British were also defeated on the 12th of November, in a 
partial engagement at Broad River, and again, eight days afterward on 
Tiger River. The losses, however, in either of these two last engage- 



4. What of the march of General Gates ? What battle was fought near Camden ? 5. 
What was the loss on both sides ? What of Baron de Kalb ? 6. What of General Sumpter 
and Colonel Tarleton? 7. Where were the British defeated? 8. Other defeats of the 
British? 

* King's Mountain is near the boundary between North and South Carolina, and in tho 
present Gaston county, North Carolina, two hundred miles west by south of Raleigh. 



THE TREASON OP ARNOLD. 



265 



Mieiits, were but trifling; nor were the advcantages gained of very great 
consequence. 

9. It has been seen, in another place, that little was done at the north 
{luring the early part of the year 1780. In June, about five thousand 
British soldiers, under General Knip-hau'-sen, plundered and burned 
several villages in New Jersey, and, in a few instances, committed the 
grossest acts of barbarity. 

10. The arrival of the French fleet at Newport, July 10th, 1T80, con- 
sisting of seven sail of the line, five frigates, five smaller vessels, and 
several transports under Admiral de Ternay, and about six thousand 
men under Count Rochambeau, a spirited officer, infused new courage 
into the whole country, and perhaps gave a new turn to the war. 



CHAPTEK CXXYIL 

Period of the Revolutionary War, Continued. — TJie 
Treason of Benedict Arnold. 

1. We come now to some of the most painfully interesting events 

in the history of the American Revo- 
lutionary war. These are, the treason 
of General Arnold, and the consequent 
capture and execution of Major Andre, 
an excellent British officer, as a spy. 

2. General Benedict Arnold was a 
native of Norwich, in Connecticut. 
His father was a man of doubtful in- 
tegrity, but he had a good mother. 
His education was merely such as the 
common schools of the place could 
give. While yet a lad, he was appren- 
ticed to a firm of druggists in Nor- 
ARNOLD. wich ; but he ran away several times 

during his apprenticeship, beside be- 
ing, in other ways, a source of perpetual trouble to his friends. 

3. Every thing pertaining to this early period of his life, indicated a 
want of conscientiousness — cruelty, ill-temper, and recklessness with 
regard to the good or ill opinion of others. Robbing birds' nests, 

9. Describe the pillage committed by the British in New Jersey. 10. What fleet and 
forces arrived at Newport ? What elfect had the arrival of these French forces at New- 
port? 

Chap. CXXVII.— 1. Who was Major Andre ? 2. Give some account of Benedict Arnold, 
8. Describe his youth. 




266 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

maiming and mangling young birds to draw forth cries from the old 
ones, vexing children, and calling them hard names, and even beating 
them, were among the frequent, if not daily, pastimes of his youth. 

4. He w^as also fond of daring, not to say dangerous, feats. For ex- 
ample, he sometimes took grain to a grist mill in the neighborhood^ 
and, while waiting for the meal, he would amuse himself and astonish 
his playmates by clinging to the arms of the large water-wheel, and 
passing with it beneath and above the water. 

5. At the close of his apprenticeship, he commenced business as a 
druggist in New Haven. His enterprise and activity insured success 
for a time ; but his speculations ended in bankruptcy. He returned, it 
is true, to his business; but he was never esteemed for honesty or solid 
integrity, either before or afterward. 

6. While an apprentice, he had once enlisted in the army ; but, dis- 
liking his duties, had deserted. When the news of the battle of Lex- 
ington arrived, Arnold, who had become a captain of what were called 
the Governor's Guard, took occasion to harangue the people, and call 
for volunteers. Sixty men joined him, and they set out for Cambridge. 
His subsequent movements have been alluded to in other chapters. 

7. The autumn of 1780 found him in the command of West Point, on 
the Hudson. Here he secretly entered into an arrangement with Sir 
Henry Clinton, the British commander in New York, to give up the fort 
of West Point, with the men, arms, stores, etc., to the British. Such a 
result, had it not been for a timely discovery of the plot, would doubt- 
less have been effected. 

8. What adds greatly to the wickedness of Arnold, in this matter, is 
the fact that he enjoyed the entire confidence of Washington, by whom 
he had always been well treated, and also that he had solicited the 
command of West Point with a special view to the commission of 
this act of treachery. Had he betrayed Washington and his country 
in a moment of angry excitement, the case would have been far dif- 
ferent. 

4. "What were some of his feats? 5. How did he commence business? How was he 
esteemed? 6. What took place while he was «nlisted as a soldier in the army? What 
ilid he do on hearing of the battle of Lexington ? 7. "What did he engage to do for the 
British as to West Point? 8. What added to the wickedness of Arnold? 



CAPTURE OF MAJOR ANDRE. 



267 



-Caj^- 



CHAPTEK CXXYIIL 

Period of the Re volution ajby War, Conttnued.- 
ture of Major Andre. 

1. The agent employed in Arnold's negotiations witif Sir Henry- 
Clinton was John 
Andr6, adjutant- 
general of the Brit-* 
ish army. He was 
an accomplished 
young man, about 
twenty-nine years 
of age. To favor 
his communica- 
tions with Arnold, 
the Vulture, a Brit- 
ish sloop of war, 
had been previous- 
ly stationed in the 
Hudson, as near 
West Point as it 
could be without 
exciting suspicion- 
2. On the night 
of September 21st, 
a boat was sent 
from the shore to 
bring Major Andre from on board the Vulture. When it returned, 
Arnold met him at the beach, outside of the forts of both armies. Their 
secret interview took place at Haverstraw, on the west side of the 
Hudson. To arrange all the details of the surrender of the fort re- 
quired considerable time, and the business was not finished till it was 
too near morning for Andre to return to the Vulture; he was therefore 
obliged to conceal himself for the day, within the American lines. 

3. During his absence, the Vulture had changed her position, and 
Andre, unable to get on board, was compelled to cross to the east side 
of the river and set out for New York by land. After exchanging his 
uniform for a plain dress, and receiving a passport from Arnold, under 
the name of John Anderson, he set out on horseback, and made the 
best of his way down the river. 

Chap. CXXVIII.— 1. What of Andre? What sloop was stationed in the Hudson to aid 
Andre's operations? 2. What meeting took place on September 21st, 1780? 3. What was 
Andr6 compelled to do ? 




MAJOR ANDUE. 



268 



HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 



4, He had the address, with the aid of liis passport, to escape the 
suspicions of the guards and outposts of the anny. But when lie came 
to Tarrytown, a small village about thirty miles north of New York, 
on the east side of the river, he was met by three New York militia 
belonging t© a scouting party, who, after examining his papers, allowed 
him to pass on. 

5. One of them, however, suspecting from his appearance that all was 
not right, called him back. Andre asked them wliere they were fron^. 

" From down be- 
V -, " '"^ low," they replied. 

"^V /|^f^#v5' "S^ am I," said 

¥ . -^ ^- ' J^te- KV he. They then ar- 

rested him ; upon 
whichhe owned he 
was a British offi- 
cer, and endeavor- 
ed to bribe them to 
release him, by the 
olfer of a purse of 
gold and his watch. 
6. But they were 
not to be bribed, 
though they were 
poor and needy. 
They conducted him to Col. Jameson, their commander, who, while he 
secured him, incautiously allowed him to drop a line to Arnold, who, 
on receiving the letter, went at once on board the Vulture, and thus 
escaped the punishment which would otherwise have been inflicted. 

7. Washington, at this moment, was on his way from Connecticut, 
where he had been to confer with Count Eochambeau. He arrived 
at West Point just in time to save it from being delivered up to the 
British, but not in time to secure Arnold. 

8. Andre, in the mean time, was tried by a board of fourteen mili- 
tary officers, who, after hearing his confession — for he was too noble 
a man to deny any part of the truth — unanimously pronounced him 
a spy ; and declared that, " agreeably to the laws and usages of na- 
tions, he should suffer death." 

9. Though prepared to die, he still shrank from perishing on a gib- 
bet, and therefore entreated to be shot. Washington, moved by his 
appeals, presented his request to his officers ; but it was refused. He 




EXAMINATION OP ANDRE. 



4. Describe hif5 journey on horseback. What happened at Tarrytown? 5. What 
passed between Andre and the three men? 6 Where did they take him? What of 
Arnold? 7. Where was Washinjrt on at this time? S. Describe Andre's trial and ti"i. in 



EXECUTION OF HALE AND PALMER. 269 

expired on a gallows, October 2d, 1780, at Tappan, in New Jersey, 
twenty-eight miles above New York. 

10. The three brave young men who took him, whose names were 
John Paulding, David Williams, and Isaac Van Wart, were rewarded 
by Congress, in an annual pension of two hundred dollars each for life, 
and a silver medal, on one side of which was a shield, inscribed, 
"Fidelity ;" and on the other the motto, Vincit amor patrice, or "The 
love of country conquers.'" 

11. Washington concerted a plan for seizing Arnold, and saving 
Andr6, but it did not succeed. Ohampe, a bold and persevering sol- 
dier, was to desert to the British army, in New York, watch his op- 
portunity, and bring oW Arnold to the American camp. After seizing 
Arnold, he was to have been met at the lines of the two armies and 
assisted in securing him. Champe entered upon the project, reached 
New York, and had nearly succeeded, when Arnold suddenly changed 
his quarters, and the scheme failed. 



CHAPTEK CXXIX. 

Period of the Revolutionary Wak, Continued. — Execu- 
tion of Hale and Palmer. — Col. Trumbull in London. 

1. We have already noticed some of the evils of war, but there is 
at least one more; it is the dreadful system of retaliation. If one 
opposing party burns a village, or plunders private property, or hangs 
deserters, the other is apt to do so, in order to avenge itself. Had it 
not been for this — for what was deemed a necessity, under this system, 
by the American officers — Andre might have been spared, for his high 
character was well known, and there was great sympathy for him, as 
well among his enemies as his friends. 

2. After the Americans had retreated from Long Island, in the year 
1776, Captain Nathan Hale passed over to the island in disguise, and 
examined carefully every part of the British army, and found out its 
general plan of movement; but just as he was ready to return, he was 
taken, found guilty, and executed. The presence of a clergyman, and 
even the use of a Bible, were denied him, and the letters which he 
wrote to his friends were destroyed. 

3. The Americans never forgot this. While the war was going on 
with Burgoyne in the north, and General Clinton was trying to force 

9. What was his request ? Where was he executed ? 10. How were the three men 
rewarded who took Andre? 11. What plan had Washington formed? What was Champe 
to do ? What did he accomplish ? 

Chap. CXXIX. 1.— What is one of the evils of war ? 2. What of Captain Nathan Hale? 
23^ 



270 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

a passage up the Hudson, spies and scouts were constantly passing be- 
tween the two armies. One Palmer was at last caught by the army un- 
der General Putnam, and executed. He had been an American tory, but 
had deserted to the British, and received a lieutenant's commission. 

4. The British general in New York, having heard of the arrest of 
Palmer, wrote to General Putnam, entreating that he might be spared, 
and threatening vengeance in case of a refusal. But neither his en- 
treaties nor his threats moved Putnam, and Palmer was condemned as 
a spy and executed. 

5. The brave Colonel Trumbull has been mentioned. He was in 
London, pursuing his studies as a painter, when the news of Andre's 
death arrived ; and though Trumbull had been entirely disconnected 
from the army for several years, he was now carefully watched, and at 
length taken and subjected to a rigid examination. Their rough 
method of examination not pleasing him, he soon brought it to a close 
by a voluntary confession. 

6. "I will put an end to all this insolent folly," said he, "by telling 
you who and what I am. I am an American — my name is Trumbull ; 
I am son of him whom you call the rebel governor of Connecticut; 
I have served in the rebel American army, and I have had the honor 
of being aide-de-camp to him you call the rebel General Washington." 

7. He was respected for his frankness and his spirit, but ^ot re- 
leased. After further examination, he was committed to prison, and 
would probably have been executed but for the kind interference of 
West, the celebrated American painter, then in London and on good 
terms with the king, who persuaded the latter to spare his life. He 
was, however, kept in close confinement seven months. 



CHAPTER CXXX. 

Period of the Revolutionary War, Continued. — Arnold 
invades Virginia and New London. 

1. Arnold received 6,315 pounds sterling — equal to about thirty 
thousand dollars — for his treachery, with the commission of a brig- 
adier-general in the service of his majesty, the British king. His 
vanity and extravagance had involved him in debt, and he doubtless 
sold himself and his country for the means of replenishing his purse. 

3. What took place during the war at the north ? What was the fate of Palmer ? 4. 
What passed between the British general and Putnam ? 5. What happened to Colonel 
Trumbull ? 6. Repeat his confession. 7. How was he treated ? 

Chap. CXXX.— 1. How was Arnold rewarded for his treachery? What was probably 
the cause of his fall ? 



ARNOLD INVADES VIRGINIA. 271 

2. Soon after his arrival in New York, he published an '' Address 
to the Inhabitants of America/' explaining the course he had pursued, 
and endeavoring to justify himself in it. It was of little force, how- 
ever. It was rather a tirade against Congress and the alliance with 
the French, than an address to the Americans, or an apology for his 
own conduct. 

3. In about two months after he joined fehe British, he was ap- 
pointed to the command of an expedition against Virginia, consisting 
of sixteen hundred men. A violent gale separated the fleet in which 
he and his men had embarked, but they all arrived at Hampton Roads 
about December 30th, except four hundred of the troops, who were a 
week later. 

4. Not waiting for those who were missing, Arnold proceeded up 
the James River, burning and plundering, without any distinction be- 
tween public and private property. After doing all the mischief he 
could, he descended the river, and stationed himself at Portsmouth ; 
and in a few weeks after returned to New York, 

5. Washington and La Fayette exerted themselves to the utmost to 
cause him to be captured, but without success. A French fleet was 
even sent to the mouth of Chesapeake Bay, chiefly for this service, but 
they were pursued by the British admiral Arbuthnot ; and though 
they had captured some of Arnold's vessels, they were compelled to 
retire to Newport. Arnold took care to secure his own person. 

6. We hear little more of this desperate man — except that he en- 
deavored, without success, to make an attack upon West Point — till the 
autumn of 1781, when he made a descent with fifteen hundred men 
upon the mouth of the Connecticut River, and took Forts Trumbull 
and Griswold, committing a merciless slaughter at the latter place, 
after the troops had partly surrendered, and burning the town of New 
London. 

7. Not long after these last events, he sailed for England. He lived 
till the year 1801, but was almost unnoticed. A small part of his 
time was spent at St. John's in the province of New Brunswick, and 
in the West Indies ; but the greater portion of it was spent in London, 
wlierehe died at the age of sixty-one years. Arnold the Traitor has 
become a name of infamy throughout this country, and even in Eng- 
land, where he was generally despised. 



2. What did he do soon after his arrival in New York? 3. To what expedition was 
he appointed commander? 4. Describe his march up the James River. 5. What means 
were used to take Arnold ? 6, 7. What more do we hear of him ? When did he die ? 



272 



HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 



CHAPTER CXXXI. 

Period of the Re volution aky War, Continued. — Events 
at the South. 

1. "We have been carried forward a little in the history of the war, in 

order to finish the story of Arnold. 
Let us now return to Washington 
and the American army, whom we 
left stunned with amazement at 
the conduct of the traitor, at West 
Point. 

2. The troops wintered — 1780- 
1T81, for the most part in [N'ew Jer- 
sey, as they had done the year be- 
fore. In the spring of 1781, the 
Pennsylvania troops, to the num- 
ber of thirteen hundred, revolted 
and rebelled for want of pay. It 
was found, on examination, that 
their complaints w^ere well found- 
ed. Their claims being met, the 
rebellion ceased. 

3. Little was done at the north, during the year 1781, except what 
has been mentioned in connection with the story of Arnold. The 
theatre of war was principally at the south. General Greene had 
succeeded to General Gates, as the commander-in-chief of the army 
there, and affairs soon began to w^ear a more favorable aspect. 

4. A brilliant victory w^as gained, January I7th, of tliis year, by a 
part of General Greeners army, under General Morgan, at a place called 
the Cowpens, in the western part of South Carolina, near King's Moun- 
tain, over a detachment of British troops under Colonel Tarleton. The 
latter had one thousand of the best men of the army ; the former about 
five hundred regulars and a few raw militia, only half clothed and half 
fed. 

5. The Americans, with a loss of only twelve in killed and sixty 
wounded, took five hundred prisoners, besides twelve standards, two 
pieces of artillery, eight hundred muskets, thirty -five baggage wagons, 




GENERAL GREENE. 



Chap. CXXXI.— 2. Where did the American troops winter 1780-1781? What of the 
troops in the spring of 1781 ? 8. Who succeeded General Gates in command at the south ? 
4. Describe the battle of the Cowpens. 5. What was the loss of the Americans ? What 
prisoners and baggage fell into their hands ? 



WAR AT THE SOUTH. 



273 



and one hundred horses, and killed one hundred and wounded two 

hundred men. So disastrous 
an event gave a permanent 
check to the progress of the 
British troops in the Southern 
states. 

6. At the time of the defeat 
of Tarleton, Lord Cornwallis 
was on tlie point of invading 
North Carolina, but he now 
went in pursuit of General 
Morgan, who made a rapid 
retreat. General Greene, sus- 
pecting Cornwallis' intentions, 
set out with his troops to re- 
inforce Morgan. Having left 
the main body of his army at 
the left bank of the Pedee 
River, opposite Cheraw, he 
arrived, and took command of 
Morgan's division, closely pur- 
sued however by Cornwallis. 

7. By a series of masterly 
movements, and great good 
fortune, the season seeming to 

aid him and his troops, Greene baffled his pursuers, until at last, having 
joined his forces and received several reinforcements, his army 
amounting to forty-four hundred men, he took a station at Guilford 
court-house,* and awaited the enemy. 

8. Here on the 15th March, he was attacked by the British, com- 
manded by Cornwallis in person. A severe engagement followed, in 
wliich, though the enemy lost in killed and wounded about five hun- 
dred men, they were at last victorious. The Americans lost about 
four hundred men, mostly regular troops — the militia having fled at 
the beginning of the battle. But the result of the engagement to the 
British was little less injurious than a defeat. 

9. Another battle was fought, on the 25th of April, near Camden. 
The British had fortified the place, and left Lord Rawdon and nine hun- 




GENERAL MORGAN. 



6. What of Lord Cornwallis ? 7. What of the movements of General Greene ? 8. What 
of the battle at Guilford court-house ? 9. What of the battle of Camden ? 



* Guilford court-house was about six miles south of the present Greensborough, in 
North Carolina, eighty miles north-west of Raleigh. Camden, in North Carolina, aa 
already stated, is one hundred and ten miles north-west from Charleston. 
12* 



274 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

dred men to guard it. General Greene, with twelve hundred men at- 
tacked them, but was at length obliged to retreat without accomplish- 
ing his purpose. 

10. But all these victories of the British were dearly bought, and 
were fast reducing their strength. The defence of Camden alone, 
though successful, had cost them nearly three hundred out of nine 
hundred men. It was therefore concluded, not only to evacuate 
Camden, but also all their other posts in Carolina, except Ninety-Six* 
and Charleston. Here they still had strong forces. 

11. The former place, Ninety-Six, was attacked by General Greene 
on the 18th of June, but he was again unsuccessful, though the British 
some time afterward evacuated the place and retired to the Eutaw 
Springs, forty miles north-west from Charleston. A close engagement 
took place at these Springs, September 8th, in which both sides claimed 
the victory. The British lost, in killed, wounded, and missing, eleven 
hundred men ; the Americans half as many. 

12. This finished the war, for the time, in South Carolina. The Brit- 
ish retired to Charleston, and General Greene, satisfied with driving 
them out of the country, did not molest them further. For bis good 
conduct at Eutaw Springs and elsewhere. Congress presented him 
with a British standard and a gold medal. 



CHAPTER CXXXIl. 

Period of the Revolutionary War, Continued. — Naval 
Operations. 

1. The naval operations of the Eevolutionary war have been alluded 
to in connection with the story of Paul Jones. A few other engage- 
ments, in the years 1779, 1780, and 1781, remain to be mentioned. 

2. Sometime in the spring of the year 1779, the Hampden, a twenty- 
two-gun ship that sailed froin Massachusetts, engaged an English vessel, 
five hundred miles north of the A-zores'. In this action, though the 
Hampden was obliged to haul ofl:', the British were not disposed to 
triumph. Tliis is said to have been one of the most closely contested 
actions of the war. 



10. What was the effect of their success upon the British? 11. What place was attacked 
\iy General Greene ? What of Eutaw Springs ? 12. What of General Greene ? Where 
llid the British retire ? 

Chap. CXXXIL— 2. What of the Hampden ? 

* Ninety-Six was in South Carolina, one hundred and fifty miles north-west from 
Charleston. 



NAVAL OPERATIONS. 275 

3. During the summer of 1779, Commodore Nicholson, with two 
ships, one of thirty-two guns, and the other of twenty -four, made a 
cruise, in which he took many prizes, but fought no important battle. 
The Providence, of twelve guns, this year took the Diligent, a British 
vessel of equal size ; and the Hazard, of fourteen guns, took the British 
vessel Active, of eighteen guns, after a bloody battle of thirty minutes. 

4. During the early part of the year 1780, while the French fleet, 
under Count d'Estaing, was in the West Indies, the British, by means 
of their superior force, were able to capture or destroy a considerable 
part of the little navy of the United States. The Providence, twenty- 
eight guns, the Queen of France, twenty-eight, the Boston, twenty- 
four, the Ranger, eighteen, and several others, successively fell into 
their hands. 

5. On the 2d of June, a most severely contested action was fought, 
some five hundred miles eastward of the coast of Virginia, between the 
Trumbull, of twenty-eight guns. Commodore Nicholson, and the Wyatt, 
Captain Coulthard, of thirty-two or thirty-six guns. The Trumbull 
had thirty-nine men killed and wounded ; the Wyatt nearly a hundred. 
The latter, though severely injured, escaped. 

6. In October, of the same year, the Saratoga, of sixteen guns. 
Captain Young, captured a British ship of war and two brigs, after a 
short but very spirited action. The Saratoga was run alongside of 
the enemy's vessel at once, and her men boarded her and fought for 
victory on the deck of the enemy's ship, and against a force double 
their own. 

7. During the year 1781, the Alliance, of thirty-two guns. Captain 
Barry, had several engagements with vessels nearly her own size, in 
all of which she was victorious. The principal of these was on the 
28th of May. On this occasion she fought two ships, one of sixteen 
guns and another of fourteen. Both were taken. 

8. The Trumbull, still under the command of Commodore Nicholson, 
had a most sanguinary engagement, on the 8th of August of this year, 
off the Capes of Delaware, with the British frigate Iris, of thirty-two 
guns, and the Shark, of eighteen, in which the Trumbull was finally 
captured ; but not till she had first almost disabled the Iris. 

9. Some other engagements took place on the ocean, both in 1781 
and 1782, but they were chiefly of the same general character with 
those described above. Let us now return to the war in the Southern 
states, and especially the operations of Cornwallis. 



8. What of Commodore Nicholson ? What British ships were taken in 1779 ? 4. Wha^ 
was done by the British navy in the year 1780 ? 5. Describe the action of the 2d June^ 
6. That of October. 7. What was done by the Alliance ? 8. What of the engagement be' 
tween the Trumbull and the Iris and Shark ? 9. Other engagements ? 



276 



HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 



CHAPTER CXXXIII. 

Period of the Revolutionary War, Continued, — Sur- 
render of Lord ComwaUis. 

1. Soon a^ter the battle at Guilford court-house, Cornwallis left 

South Carolina to the 
^ ^ care of Lord Ravv- 

/-^ don, and marched 
into Virginia. This 
was just after the 
French fleet, with a 
land force of three 
thousand men, under 
La Fayette, which 
had been sent against 
Arnold in Virginia, 
had returned toward 
the north. On reach- 
ing Elkton, in Marj- 
land, La Fayette 
heard of the arrival 
of Lord Cornwallis 
at Petersburg, and hastened with his troops to meet him, 

2. As La Fayette approached Petersburg, Cornwallis oifered him 
battle ; but finding his forces greatly inferior to those of the British, 
he chose to retreat, and wait for reinforcements. Meanwhile, Wash- 
ington and other officers at the north were making every possible prep- 
aration for an attack upon New York ; and were already concentrat- 
ing their forces, including the French, under Rochambeau, at Kings- 
bridge. 

3. About this time, Cornwallis received a reinforcement of troops, 
upon which, after various movements, he marched to Yorktown,* near 
the head of York River, on its southern bank, and forthwith began to 
fortify the place, as well as Gloucester, on the opposite side of the 
river. His whole force now amounted to about seven thousand men. 




SURRENDER OF LORD CORNWALLIS. 



Chap. CXXXIII.— 1. What did Lord Cornwallis do soon after the battle at Guilford 
court-house? What of the French fleet? What did La Fayette then do? 2. What was 
being done by J;he American and French forces? 3. What of Cornwallis? His force? 

* Yorktown, the capital of York county, in Virginia, is a small place, situated on the 
fioiith ide of York Elver, about seven miles from its entrance into the Chesapeake. It is 
nt'ven*-,' m/los south-east of Richmond. 



SURRENDER OF LORD CORNWALL IS. 



'J^ii 




PLAN OF THE BATTLE OF TORKTOWN. 



4. Just at tills time, "Washington learned that the French fleet, which 
was expected to unite with him in the siege of New York, was about 
to sail for tlie mouth of Chesapeake Bay. This changed liis deter- 
mination, though he did not suffer his plan to be known, and he hast- 
ened with his forces, Americans and French, at once toward Yorktown 
to attack Cornwallis. 

5. On the 30th of September, the combined armies of tlie nortli and 
south, amounting to twelve thousand men, were fairly encamped round 
about Yorktown and Gloucester, while the French fleet, under Count 
de Grasse, blockaded the mouth of the river, to prevent Cornwallis 
from receiving any assistance from New York or elsewhere, and from 
making his escape. 

G. Washington arrived in person on the 6th of October, and the siege 
was begun and carried on with so much vigor that, on the 19th of Oc- 
tober, 1781, Lord Cornwallis found himself obliged to surrender, with 



4. What of Washington jnst at this time? What changed his determination ? 5. De- 
scribe the situation of the French and American forces at Yorlvtown. 6. When did Lord 
Cornwallis surrender? 

24 



278 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

his whole army of more than seven thousand men — an event which 
two months before was as unexpected by the Americans as it was by 
the British government. 

7. At the capture of Charleston, eighteen months before, by the 
British, much pains had been taken to render the manner of the sur- 
render as humiliating to the Americans as possible. This was remem- 
bered by the victorious army at Yorktown, and retaliated. So humil- 
iating indeed was it, that Lord Cornwallis would not appear in person 
to give up his sword, but sent it by General O'Hara. 

8. So rapid, and at the same time so secret, had been the move- 
ments of Washington and his army to the south, that the British did 
not for some time suspect his departure from the neighborhood of New 
York. AVhen they learned what was going on, they sent the traitor 
Arnold to Connecticut, as we have elsewhere stated, in order to divert 
Washington from his object. Sir Henry Clinton also sailed with an 
armament of seven thousand men for the relief of Cornwallis, but as he 
did not reach the Chesapeake till five days after his surrender, he re- 
turned to New York. 

9. This important event, the surrender of Cornwallis, revived the 
dying hopes of the country, and diffused universal joy, of which the 
strongest public testimonials were everywhere given. Nothing was to 
be heard, for some time, but the praises of Washington, La Fayette, 
Rochambeau, and De Grasse. The war was now thought to be chiefly 
over. The 30th of the December following was appointed by Con- 
gress as a day of national thanksgiving. 

10. The British still occupied New York, Charleston, Savannah, and 
a few other posts ; but they no longer, as before, overran New Jersey 
and the Carolinas. Nor was there, in truth, much more severe fight- 
ing. The fall of Cornwallis may therefore be justly said to have de- 
cided the war ; and to have decided it in favor of the Americans. 

11. Among the more considerable events of the year 1781, in addi- 
tion to a few which have already been noticed, was an expedition, late 
in the autumn, against the Cherokee Indians, who had recently been 
troublesome. In this expedition, thirteen of their towns and villages 
were burnt, and many of the Indians were slain. 

12. Soon after the capture of Cornwallis, the northern division of 
the American army returned to their old position on the Hudson, while 
the French troops and the southern division of the army remained in 

7. What of the surrender ftt Charleston ? What of that of Cornwallis? S What can 
you say of the movements of Washington's army? 9. What demonstrations of joy were 
made all over the country? 10. What places were occupied by the British at this time? 
What decided the war? 11. What expedition was made in 1781 in regard to the Indians? 
12. Where did the Americans and French station themselves soon after the cupture ot 
Cornwallis ? 



TREATY OF PEACE. 



279 



and about Virginia. Count de Grasse sailed with his fleet to the West 
Indies, where they spent the winter. 

13. It should be added here, that the Articles of Confederation, 
which Congress had prepared and signed, and sent to the several states 
for adoption, were finally ratified by them all, this year. Till this time, 
objections of one kind or another had been made, and various amend- 
ments proposed ; but it was at length seen necessary to unite, in order 
to sustain the contest with Great Britain, and hence the compact of the 
Confederation was adopted. 



CHAPTER CXXXIV. 

Close of the Revolutionary Waji. — Treaty of Peace. 

1. After the surrender of Lord Cornwallis, the war with America 

began to be quite unpopular in 
England ; but nothing decisive 
was done to put an end to it till 
March, 1782, when the House of 
Commons passed a resolution 
against prosecuting, or attempt- 
ing to prosecute, the American 
war any further. Still the troops 
were not withdrawn immediately. 
2. The first truly pacific public 
measure adopted by Great Britain, 
was that of appointing Sir Guy 
Carleton, one of the best and 
ablest of the British generals, to 
the command of the forces in 
America, and directing him to 
settle the differences between the 

two countries. Tliis oflicer endeavored to open a correspondence with 

Congress for this purpose ; but they refused to do any thing except in 

concert with their French allies. 

3. It was not till late in the year 1782, that any thing eflfectual was 

accomplished toward making peace between the two countries. At 




SIR GDY CARLETON. 



13. What of the Articles of Confederation ? 

Chap. CXXXI V.— 1. What was done in England in 1782 ? 2. What did Sir Guy Carle- 
ton attempt to do? 3. What commissioners met at Paris? 



280 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

length, however, by the advice and request of the French court, two 
commissioners on the part of Great Britain, Messrs. Fitzherbert and 
Oswald, and four on the part of the United States, John Adams, Ben- 
jamin Franklin, John Jay, and Henry Laurens, met at Paris. 

4. Here, after consulting long on the subject, they formed what 
were called Provisional Articles of Peace. These were signed on the 
30th of November. On the 20th of January, 1783, it was agreed by 
the commissioners that all hostilities between the two countries should 
cease. The news of this was received in the United States on the 24th 
of the March following. 

5. On the 19th of April, precisely eight years after the battle of 
Lexington, Washington issued a proclamation of peace. There liad 
been no blood shed, however, or almost none, for nearly eight months, 
A definitive treaty of peace was made and signed at Paris, September 
3d, 1783, by which Great Britain acknowledged the independence of the 
United States. 

6. This acknowledgment had been already made by several of the 
countries of Europe. Sweden had acknowledged it February 5th ; Den- 
mark, February 25th ; Spain, March 24th ; and Russia in July. Treaties 
of amity and peace were also made between the United States and 
these several nations. 

7. The United States army was kept together till the third day of 
November. On that day, after suitable preparation had been made, it 
was disbanded in due form. Washington, in an affectionate address, 
first bade farewell to his soldiers, and subsequently to his officers. 
These last, at parting, he took by the hand separately. The formalities 
of bidding adieu took place at New York. 

8. The British do ngt appear to have left New York till the 25th 
of the same month, though Charleston and Savannah had been evacu- 
ated long before. It may seem a little surprising that the British 
should remain at New York so long. One reason for the delay was 
the want of transports for carrying away their military stores and 
supplies, as well as for conducting to Nova Scotia the refugees who 
had fled to them from all parts of the country for protection. 

9. On the 23d of December, Washington appeared in the hall of 
Congress at Annapolis, and resigned his commission. The act of res- 
ignation was accompanied by a short but affecting speech, in which 
after recounting briefly the events of the w^ar, he commended his coun- 



4. What articles were signed in November? What agreement was made? 5. When 
was peace proclaimed? What of the treaty signed at Paris? 6. What countries had 
acknowledged the independence of the United States ? 7. Describe the disbanding of the 
army. 8. How long did the British stay in New York ? Why was their stay so pro- 
tracted ? 



EFFECTS OF THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 281 

trj, and all concerned in the administration of its affairs, to the special 
protection of Heaven. 

10. Congress, in accepting his commission, replied to him through 
General Mifflin, their president, in a manner expressive of their con- 
fidence in his wisdom, and their gratitude for his services. He then 
left them at Annapolis, and hastened to his family and farm at Mount 
Vernon, where he hoped to spend the remainder of his days. 



CHAPTER CXXXY. 

Effects of the American Revolution. 

1. Thus ended a war of eight years' duration, in which a hundred 
thousand lives were lost, and hundreds of thousands suffered greatly 
from wounds, sickness, poverty, or from the losses or sufferings of 
their friends ; and in which, also, hundreds of millions of property were 
expended. Let us recount the losses and gains. 

2. Great Britain, of course, gained nothing by the war. Hers was 
wholly loss. The United States gained their Political Independence — 
"a name and a place among the nations of the earth." This was, 
indeed, a great boon, but the war brought with it a long train of evils. 
Dr. Ramsay, of South Carolina, who wrote a history of the Revolu- 
tion soon after its occurrence, says as follows : 

3. " On the whole, the literary, political, and military talents of the 
United States have been improved by the Revolution ; but their moral 
character is inferior to what it was. So great is the change for the 
worse, that the friends of good order are loudly called upon to exert 
their utmost abilities in extirpating the vicious principles and habits 
which have taken deep root during the convulsion." 

4. Voltaire had said, long before this time: "Put together all the 
vices of ages, and they will not come up to the mischiefs and enormi- 
ties of a single campaign." But if this is true of a single campaign, 
— and who will doubt it? — how much more is it true of a series of 
campaigns like that of the American revolutionary war ! 

5. Before the Revolution, and especially before the long and disas- 
trous Indian wars, the people of the United States were an industrious, 
sober, honest, and religious people. A large proportion of them were 



9, 10. Describe the resignation ofWashington's commission. 

Chap. CXXXV.— 1. What had been the consequences of the war with England ? 2. 
What was the comparative gain of Great Britain and America ? Repeat an extract from 
Dr. Ramsay. 4. What remark does Voltaire make concerning war? 5. What of the 
United States before the Revolution ? 
24^ 



282 



HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES 



engaged in husbandly or mechanical pursuits. There was compara- 
tively little of useless speculating and downright idleness. 

6. An army is always corrupt, and always corrupts the society 
which holds it in its bosom. If this eifect was less visible in the case 
of the American army, made up as it was, for the most part, of its 
own citizens, rather than hireling Hessians, yet we must remember 
that even the American army contained many useless and vicious 
citizens, and that not all who were virtuous when they enlisted, were 
so at the period of theit discharge. 

7. The cause of education suffered greatly during the war. Com- 
mon schools, instead of being fostered by the government, the churchy 
or the family, as they always had been before, were not only neglected, 
bat in a great many instances absolutely overlooked and suffered to 
perish. The course of instruction in our colleges was sometimes sus- 
pended. Many a student became a soldier. 

8. But the worst evil whicli befell the country was the introduction 
of irreligion. The Revolution opened the door to infidelity in two 
ways. First, by introducing foreign fashions, habits, and modes of 
feeling, thinking, and acting — a practical infidelity ; and secondly, by 
introducing from England and France, but especially the latter, an 
open opposition to Christianity. 

9. The atheistical philosophy of God- 
win, Rousseau, Voltaire, and others, was 
spread in the United States during the 
Revolution with a fearful rapidity. But 
there were infidel writers in our own 
country. Ethan Allen's " Oracles of 
Reason" had already appeared. Thomas 
Paine's " Common Sense," written to aid 
the Revolution, with much truth had in- 
culcated some error, and paved the way 
for his other and more objectionable writ- 
ings. The effect of all these evil influ- 
ences was long felt in the country. 




THOMAS PAINK. 



6. What is the usual eflFect of an army on society? 7 "What of education during the 
war? 8. What was the worst evil that befell the country? 9. What of Mheistical phi' 
losophy ? What of infidel writeris? 



DEBTS OF THE UNITED STATES 283 



CHAPTER CXXXYI. 

Debts of the United States imposed Ijy the Revolution. — 
Discontents of the People. — Shays'' Rehellion. 

1. The war had involved the United States in a debt of forty mil- 
lions of dollars. Of this sum, eight millions were borrowed of foreign 
powers. The rules of the confederation of 1777 empowered Congress 
to carry on the war ; but they had no power to provide for its ex- 
penses. They could only recommend to the several states to raise 
money for that purpose. 

2. Accordingly, on the SOtli of May, 1781, Congress passed a reso- 
lution requesting the several states to furnish their proportion respect- 
ively of the eight millions of dollars of borrowed money. They also 
appointed a committee to determine what proportion of the money 
ought to be paid by each state. 

3. It was proposed to the states that a duty of four per cent, on all 
foreign goods imported into the United States should be paid, and that 
the revenue arising therefrom should be applied to the payment of the 
national debt, both foreign and domestic. The latter was principally 
due to the officers and soldiers of the army. 

4. All the states, except Rho^e Island and New York, assented to 
this proposal. But as these two states had a large share of the public 
trade, their refusal to contribute to pay the public debt defeated the 
whole plan ; and the consequence was, that even the interest of the 
national debt remained unpaid. The government was exceedingly 
perplexed, and knew not in such a case what to do. 

5. Certain measures of Great Britain added to the embarrassment. 
Instead of permitting a free trade with the colonies in the West In- 
dies, she shut her j)orts there against our vessels ; and Congress, of 
course, had no power to compel her to open them. And what Congress 
could not do, the different states were not disposed to attempt, had 
they possessed the power. 

6. Under these embarrassing circumstances, it was perfectly natural 
for those states which felt desirous of discharging their debts in an 
honorable manner, to make the utmost exertion to do their part. 
Massachusetts, in particular, resolved to bear her portion of the public 
burden, and proceeded to act accordingly. 



Chap. CXXXVI.— 1. What debt did the United States owe? Could Congress provide 
for the expenses of the war? 2. What was done in 1781 ? 3. What was proposed to' the 
states? 4. Which states objected to the proposal? What effect had their refusal? 5- 
What added to the perplexity of government? 6. How did the states feel? 



284: HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

7. The country was not, however, in a perfectly settled state. There 
were some men in Massachusetts who, though they had been willing, 
in 1776, to go to war with Great Britain rather than submit to taxa- 
tion without representation, were willing, in 1786, to go to war with 
the government rather than pay their share of the expenses w^hich the 
contest with Great Britain had occasioned. 

8. On the 22d of August, 1786, delegates from fifty towns in the 
county of Hampshire met at Hatfield, and set on foot an opposition to 
the burdens, as they called them, which were lying on the people. 
The excitement soon spread to Worcester, Middlesex, Bristol, and 
Berkshire counties. Indeed, it did not stop in Massachusetts — it ex- 
tended to New Hampshire. 

9. In some parts of Massachusetts, tumultuous assemblies, under the 
specious names of conventions, were assembled, which obstructed the 
proceedings of courts and other bodies. Daniel Shays, who had been 
a captain in the revolutionary war, was considered as the head of the in- 
surgents — hence the movement took the name "Shays' Insurrection." 

10. In August, no less than fifteen hundred of these insurgents as- 
sembled in Northampton. They took possession of the court-house, 
and would not allow the courts to sit. In December, three hundred 
of them, under Shays himself, acted a similar farce in Springfield. In 
truth, the spirit of opposition to taxation was rife everywhere in the 
states, and seemed to be on the increase. 

11. In December, 1786, or early in January, 1787, a body of four 
thousand men was raised to sustain the courts and suppress the insur- 
rection, and General Lincoln — the same man who had so much dis- 
tinguished himself in the army of the United States— was appointed 
to the chief command. The troops were raised for a service of only 
thirty days. 

12. One of the first directions to the new army, Avas to go to Wor- 
cester, and defend the courts there. In this they succeeded. Another 
object was to defend the arsenal at Springfield. For this last purpose, 
twelve hundred men, under General Shepard, assembled at Springfield; 
and, on the 24th of January, Shays, with eleven hundred men, marched 
against them. 

13. When the insurgents were within two hundred and fifty yards 
of the arsenal, word was sent them not to come any nearer, for if 
they did they would be fired on. Disregarding this, they advanced 
one hundred yards further, upon which General Shepard ordered his 



7. "What new trouble now arose ? 8. What was done in 1786? How far did the opposi- 
tion extend? 9. What of tumultuous assemblies? Who headed the insurrection ? 10. 
What was done in August? In December? 11. Who headed the men raised to suppress 
the insurrection? 12. What did the army first attempt? What was another object f 



SHAYS' REBELLION 



285 



lutui to fire, but to direct the first shot over their heads. This only 
quickened their approach. The artillery was then levelled against 
tliem, and three of their number were killed and one wounded. 

14. Shays endeavored to rally his men, but in vain. They retreat- 
ed first to Ludlow, and afterward to Pelham, where they again assem- 
bled. General Lincoln, hearing of this at Hadley, marched against 
them, in the midst of deep snow, and took one hundred and fifty of 
them prisoners, and dispersed the rest. 

15. Conditional pardon was now offered by the legislature of Mas- 
sachusetts to all the rebels ; of which seven hundred and ninety availed 
themselves. Fourteen were tried and received sentence of death ; but 
were, one after another, finally pardoned. The rebellion was at length 
suppressed, and the peace of the commonwealth restored. 



CHAPTER CXXXYIL 

Formation and Adoption of the Constitution of the United 
States. — Washington elected President. 

1. We have seen that a confederacy of the states was proposed, 

during the first 
years of the Rev- 
, li I olutionary War, 
jdmiLLilll 1 1 and signed by the 

thirteen states, in 
1781. But expe- 
r\ rience at length 
seemed to show 
that, how wisely 
soever it had been 
framed for a time 
of war, it was not 
adequate to all 
the wants of the 
country in a time 
of peace. 

2. In January^ 
1786, a proposal was made by the legislature of Virginia, for a con- 




TUK COXVKNTldX 



13. Describe the advance of the insurgents. Their reception. 14. What was the fate ol 
Shays' men ? 15. What was the fate of the rebels ? 

Chap. CXXXVIL— 1. "What can you say of the confederacy signed in 1781? 



286 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

vention of commissioners from the several states, whose duty it should 
be to take into consideration the trade and commerce of the country, 
and either devise some plan for their regulation, or delegate to Con- 
gress the power to legislate upon it ; — in other words, to revise the 
federal system. 

3. Provision was made for holding such a convention in Annapolis 
in the following September ; but as there were delegates present at 
that time from only six of the states, the subject was deferred to the 
following May. In the mean time, new efforts were made to procure 
a general attendance at that meeting. 

4. In May, 1787, commissioners from all the states but Khode Island 
met at Philadelphia, and having chosen General Washington, who was 
one of the delegates from Virginia, their president, they proceeded to 
the important business assigned them. Their whole number was fifty- 
five. 

5. The question which first engaged their attention was, whether 
to revise the old federal system, or form a new one. The object for 
which the convention had been originally appointed, was that of mere 
revision. And yet the defects of the old system were such that it was 
finally determined by the majority to form a new system. 

6. The next thing was, to agree upon the principles which should 
form the basis of the new confederation. Here, in general, there was 
much harmony of opinion at first. But when they came to the prac- 
tical application of those principles, there was more of disagreement. 
One point, in particular, upon which they could not soon agree, was 
the formation of a national legislature. 

7. It was a long time before all the members of the convention were 
willing to have the members of the House of Representatives be in 
proportion to the whole number of free citizens in the state and three- 
fifths of the others. And as to the Senate, there was still greater dif- 
ficulty. The small states wished to be on an equal footing with the 
larger ones ; to which the latter were, of course, strongly opposed. 

8. When this last point had been agitated for a long time, and the 
convention seemed about to adjourn without accomplishing its object, 
Dr. Franklin, a member from Pennsylvania, then over eighty years of 
age, in a speech which abounded in good sense, and was not wanting 
in eloquence, proposed daily morning prayer. 

9. This hint being well received, prayer was henceforth offered, 
every day, before proceeding to business. From this time, there was 



2. What was to the be duty of the commissioners? 3. What of a convention at Annapo- 
lis? 4. What was done in May, 1787? How many commissioners were there? 5. What 
first occupied them ? 6. What was the next consideration? Upon what point did thoy 
disagree ? 7. What difllculties arose in the states ? 8. What wns proposed by Dr. Franklin ? 



WASHINGTON ELECTED PRESIDENT. 287 

more and more of harmony in their deliberations, till at length a con- 
stitution was matured and signed by the members, and presented to 
Congress, who forthwith presented it to the several states, for them 
to consider and ratify. 

' 10. It had been resolved by the convention, that state conventions 
should be called to discuss the merits of the new constitution, and to 
accept or reject it, as might seem to them best ; and that Congress 
should carry it into effect as soon as it should be signed or ratified by 
nine of the states. 

11. For a time it was quite doubtful whether it would ever go into 
operation. At length, however, it was ratified by eleven of the states ; 
North Carolina and Rhode Island alone, of the thirteen, refusing to 
accept it. They finally consented to receive it — the former in 1789, 
the latter in 1790. 

12. All classes of people, whether federalists or not — for by this 
name the friends of the federal government were called — now turned 
their eyes toward Washington as their first president. On opening 
the votes for chief magistrate of the United States, at New York, March 
3d, 1789, it was found that George Washington was unanimously elect- 
ed ; and that John Adams was chosen vice-president. 



9. What contributed to produce harmony ? What was at length formed ? 10. What 
was resolved upon by the convention ? 11. By how many states was it ratified ? What 
states finally received it? 12. On whom did all fix as president? When were the vo^es 
taken 5' Who was chosen president? Who vice ijresidcnt? 



26S 



flISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 




WASHINGTOX AS PRESIDENT. 



CHAPTER CXXXYIII. 

Beginning of the New Government under the present Con- 
stitution. — Washington's Administration, from March 
4th, 1789, TO March 4th, 1797. — Proceedings of the 
first Congress. 

1. We have now reached the period when the present Constitution 
i>f the United States went into operation. Washington was the first 
president, and began his administration in 1789; from that time to this, 
a period of seventy five years, we have had sixteen presidents. Wash- 
ington was inducted into his new office April 30th, 1789, in the presence 
of the first Congress of the United States which convened under the new 
constitution. As soon as the ceremonies of the inauguration were 
over, he entered the Senate chamber and delivered his first speech. 
This speech, which has been much commended, was in nothing more 



Chap. CXXXVIII.— 1. Wlio was the first American president? When did Wash- 
rngton's first administration begin? How long since the government began under the 
constitution? How many presidents since Washington ? Describe the inauguration of 
Washington. For what was his speech remarkable? IIow did the ceremonj' close? 



FIRST CONGRESS. 289 

remarkable than its frecjuent reference to a Supreme Being as the 
Pailer of the universe, and Controller of human actions and human 
destiny, whether individual or national. Then, "suiting the action 
to the word," he and the members of both houses of Congress attend- 
ed divine service almost immediately afterward. 

2. Never was the business of a legislative body more pressing or 
more important than that of the first Congress of the United States. 
Four prominent measures could not be delayed. There must be a 
revenue ; the various departments of government must be arranged 
and filled ; a judiciary department and its officers were needed; and 
the public credit was, if possible, to be maintained. 

3. To create a revenue and pay the public debt, foreign and domes- 
tic, and support the present government, it was decided that duties 
should be laid on imported goods and merchandise, and on the tonnage 
of vessels. A Department of State, a Treasury Department and a War 
Department were created, and Thomas JetFerson, Alexander Hamilton, 
and Henry Knox placed at their heads respectively. 

4. The power of removal from oflice, in the executive departments, 
occasioned a good deal of discussion ; but it was at length decided that 
it should be left with the president alone. Congress adjourned Sep- 
tember 29th ; but not till they had requested the president to recom- 
mend to the people a day of public thanksgiving and prayer. 

5. During the recess of Congress, President Washington made a 
tour through Xew England as far as Portsmouth, in New Hampshire, 
with a view to observe the character, habits, etc., of the people. He 
was received everywhere with those marks of attention which indi- 
cated an entire confidence in his administration. 

6. The second session of the first Congress commenced January 8th, 
1790. From the report of Mr. Hamilton, secretary of the treasury, it 
was found that the United States debt was fifty-four million dollars, 
for the payment of all which he recommended adequate provision. 

7. No objection was felt in Congress, to paying the foreign debt 
which had been incurred, now amounting, including interest, to eleven 
million five hundred thousand dolla,rs ; but the question of the full 
assumption, by Congress, of all the rest of the debts, including those 
contracted by the states, caused a long and anxious debate. 

8. Congress, however, by a small majority, finally concluded to pay 
the whole debt. In order to do this, the money derived from the sale 



2. What four measures were deemed necessary to be taken ? 3. What was decided 
upon ? What departments were created, and who were placed at the head ? 4. What dis- 
cussion arose ? When did Congress adjourn? 5. What journey did Washington take? 
6. What debt had the United States inGiirred? 7. What caused a long debate? S. Upon 
what did Congress conclude ? What sum did they decide to borrow ? 
25 



290 



H T S T O H V OF THE UNITED S T A T E vS 



of westei'u lands Avas to be api)lie(l, together with what remaiued of the 
revenue after payhig the current expenses of the government. It w'as 
also decided to borrow, at five per cent, interest, two millions of dollars. 
9. During the session, the state of Vermont, by consent of both 
houses of Congress, was received into the Union, w^hich although it 
iiad aided actively in the Revolutionary War, had not joined the con- 
federation. The seat of general government was fixed for ten years at 
Philadelphia, after which — that is, in the year 1800 — it was to be re- 
moved to Washington. A tax was laid, after a long and angry debate, 
on domestic spirits. A National Bank was also established, with a 
capital often millions of dollars, and a charter was granted, to extend 
to^May, 1811. 



CHAPTER CXXXIX. 

Washington's Administration Continued. — Jiis. of Pa/r- 
ties. — Wars with the Indians. 

1. The discussion of so many great and inipo.rtant subjects at the 

two sessions of the first Congress 
had already formed a line of de- 
marcation between the two great 
political parties, whose frequent 
subsequent conflicts for power 
have more than once shaken the 
very confederacy itself to its cen- 
tre. 

2. But while these things were 
going on at Philadelphia, a war 
w%as preparing with the Indians 
of the north-west. By an ordi- 
nance of Congress, in 1787, a terri- 
torial government had been form- 
ed north-west of the river Ohio ; 
and, by another ordinance, power 
had been given to commissioners 

to treat with the Indians. In spite, however, of governments and 

treaties, an Indian war broke out in 1790. 




9. When was Vermont received into the Union ? Where was the seat of government 
to be at first ? When was it to he removed to Washington ? What tax was laid ? What 
of a bank? 

Chap CXXXIX. — 1. What distinction in parties grew out of the debates in Congress ? 
2. What war was in preparation ? What had been ordered by Conjrress? 



GENERAL ST. CLAIR. 291 

8. On the 80th of September, General Harmar, with fourteen hun- 
dred and fifty men, three-fourths of whom were Pennsylvania and 
Kentucky militia, marched against the Indians at their villages, on the 
Sci-o'-to and Mi-a'-mi Rivers. The Indians, having set fire to their 
huts with their own hands, fled to the woods. 

4. After burning and plundering and some skirmishing, for several 
days, a general and decisive battle was fought near the spot where 
Chillicothe now stands, in which the army of the United States was 
defeated, with the loss of nearly two hundred men. The loss of the 
Indians, however, was considerable. They had lost also, during the 
whole time, about three hundred huts and wigwams. 

5. The success of the United States was greater this year, in making 
treaties with the Indians, than in fighting them. By the persevering 
exertions of General Knox, the secretary of war, a treaty was made 
with the Creek Indians, in which a large territory, hitherto claimed 
by that tribe, was ceded to Georgia. 

6. After the failure of the expedition under General Ilarmar, Gen- 
eral St. Clair was appointed to the command of the north-western 
army, and additional troops were raised. He was also appointed gov- 
ernor of the North-Western Territory, He was instructed to carry on 
the war against the Indians, by destroying their villages about the 
Miami, and driving them wholly away from the Ohio country. 

7. In the spring of 1791, he took the field with about fifteen hun- 
dred men. The Indians in that region had, as it was supposed, about 
an equal number of warriors. Generals "Wilkinson and Scott were 
sent out with eight hundred and fifty men, but did not effect much. 
Early in November, General St. Clair himself went against them with 
his whole force. 

8. On the 4th of iSTovember, a great battle was fought on the Miami, 
in which the army of St. Clair was entirely defeated, with the loss of 
more than six hundred men — nearly half his army. This was the most 
signally destructive battle which had been fought with the Indians 
since the memorable defeat of Braddock. 

9. But, instead of relinquishing the war, on account of a few disas- 
ters, Congress, after a good deal of discussion and much opposition to 
the measure, passed a bill to raise several new regiments of troops, to 
be employed in the service, if necessary, three years. 

10. During the year 1791, Washington made a tour of observation 
through the Southern states, as he had done through the Northern, 



3. Who marched against the Indians ? 4. Where was a battle fought ? What of the 
Indian loss ? 5. What was done by General Knox ? 6. What of General St. Clair ? 7. What 
was done in 1791 ? 8. What of tlie battle on the Miauai ? 9. What did Congress do in re- 
gard to the Indian war ? 



292 



lllSTUliV Oi^^ THE UNITED STATES. 



two years before, and for similar purposes. The day, and in many 
instances the hour, of liis ai)i)earance at each phu^e, was lixed long 
before liis arrival, from which, except in a single instance, lie never de- 
viated. He was received everywhere with demonstrations of great joy. 




CHAPTEE CXL. 

WAttiiiNGTON's Administration, Continui-:! >. — Kentucky 
Admitted to the Union. 

1. DuEiNG the year 1792, Kentucky was admitted to the Union, as 
the fifteenth grand pillar of the Union — Vermont having made the 
fourteenth. It may be useful to trace the history of this state from 
the earliest known periods, as well as the character of the individual 
who began its settlement. 



10. Describe W.ishinirtdn's tour in 179J. 

Chap. CXL.— 1. Wlu-n was Kentiiekv inadc u state? 



KENTUCKY xV D M 1 T T E D TO THE U x\ 1 N . 298 

2. The Revolutionuiy Wur, though it retarded the progress of the 
settlements in the West, did not wholly prevent emigration thither. In 
1T73, no less than four hundred families passed down the Ohio River 
in six weeks, most of whom settled at or near Natchez. The same 
year three hundred families of Germans emigrated from Maine to the 
south-western parts of South Carolina. 

3. But the most remarkable of all the attempts to people the western 
country at this period was made by Colonel Daniel Boone, of North 
Carolina. He was a great hunter, and had rambled in the forests of 
the "Mighty West" several years before he ventured, in defiance of 
wild beasts and still wilder men, to take up his residence there. 

4. lie first left home, in company with six other adventurers, in 
1769. Kentucky was found to be a fine place for hunting the buffalo. 
At length, he and a companion by the name of Stuart were taken 
prisoners by the Indians. They escaped from them and found their 
way back to their camp, but it had been plundered, and the rest of the 
company Avere dispersed. 

5. Soon after this, his brother and another man joined him, so that 
the company was again increased to four. Stuart was soon after 
killed by the Indians, and the other man by wolves, so that Boone and 
his brother alone remained. They, however, built themselves a cottage 
with poles and bark, and wintered there. 

6. In May, 1770, the brother of Boone returned to North Carolina, 
in order to ]trocure a recruit of horses and ammunition, leaving him 
entirely alone, and, as he himself says, " without bread, salt, or sugar, 
or even a horse or a dog." This winter, in one of his rambles, he 
narrowly escaped the savages. But he was one of those men who, 
like Washington, seemed reserved for special purposes. 

7. His brother returned to him late in July, and they spent the rest 
of the year there, and the following winter. During this time, beside 
hunting, they discovered and gave name to the principal rivers of the 
country. The whole region seemed to them a paradise, and in March, 
1771, they returned home to bring their families there. 

8. In September, 1773, they set out for Kentucky. Five other fam- 
ilies had been induced, by their representations, to join them. Forty 
men also joined them at PowelPs Valley, on the road. Soon after this, 
they were attacked by the Indians, and six of the party slain, among 
whom was Boone's eldest son. Their cattle also were scattered. 

9. They retreated forty miles to a settlement on Clinch River, where 



2. Describe the emigration of the year 1773? 3. What of Daniel Boone? 4, 5. Describe 
bis adventures In 1769 6. What took pU\ce in May, 1770? 7. What happened after tlic 
return of his brother? What did he and his brother do in 1771 ? 8. What happened in 
September ? What was done by the Indiana ? 
05 -X- 



204 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

they left their families. From this time forth, for nearly two years, 
Boone was employed in surveying the country and in building roads 
and forts. Among the rest, they built a fort at a place which they 
called Boonesborough. He removed his family to the fort in June, 
1775, about the time of the battle at Lexington. 

10. This is supposed to have been the first permanent settlement in 
that state — at that time a ])art of Virginia — though two others were 
made not for from the same time. The wife and daughter of Colonel 
Boone were, as he says, " the first white women that ever stood upon 
the banks of Kentucky Kiver." 

11. But this settlement was not effected without great peril. Several 
times did the Indians attack Boone's party during the journey from 
Clinch River to Boonesborough. Five of the company were killed, and 
as many wounded. Others were slain after their arrival. The daughter 
of Boone was even carried off by the savages, in 1770 ; but her father 
recovered her. 

12. The whole life of this father of Kentucky is eventful and in- 
teresting ; we can only add here, that he remained in his favorite 
state, though often much exposed and once taken a prisoner, till 1798, 
when he removed, with a large train of relatives and friends, to 
Missouri, where he spent his days in hunting and trapping. He died 
in 1822, aged eighty-five years. 



CHAPTER CXLI. 

Washington's Admints iration, Continued. — Formation 

of various Societies in the United States. 

1. The year 1792 is distinguished for the formation of the Massachu- 
setts Agricultural Society ; an association which, by itself and its 
auxiliaries, has, in the progress of half a century, done much for the 
advancement, in the United States, of that which constitutes the real 
wealth and happiness and greatness of a nation. 

2. U[) to this period, societies for the promotion of improvement, 
jjhysical or moral, had been little known among us. But an interval 
of rest from war had led many at length to turn their thoughts to 
mechanics, manufactures, agriculture, education, morals, and religion. 



9 How was Boone o.tiiplo\'eil for two years? To what place did he remove his family? 
10. What was tlio first permanent settlement in Kentucky? What of the wife and 
daughter of Boone ? 11. How were the settlers annoyed by the Indians ? 12. How lonjj 
did Boone remain in Kentucky? Where did he then sro? When did he die ? 

Chap. CXLI.— 1. For what is the year 1792 distinguished? 2. What had been dono 
during the interval of rest from war? 



SOCIETIES IN THE UNITED STATE&. 295 

o. It is worthy of rcnuirk that the rearing of mulberry -trees and 
silk-woruis had succeeded so far, in Connecticut, that the Rev. Jason 
Atwater, a minister in Branford, had a silk gown made for him this 
year, at his own home. This was the first clergyman's silk gown made 
in America. Silk stockings had been fabricated a little before, and 
also silk handkerchiefs. 

4. One of tlie first and most curious societies ever formed in this 
country was the Boston Society for Encouraging Industry and Em- 
ploying the Poor. It was established about the year 1750, though it 
continued but a few years. A large and handsome brick building was 
erected in Boston, in connection with this society, for the linen manu- 
facture, the expense of which was paid by a tax on carriages and 
other articles of luxury. 

5. This society held its first anniversary in 1753, when a public dis- 
course was delivered by Pwev. Mr. Cooper. In the afternoon, about three 
hundred young female spinsters, decently dressed, appeared on the com- 
mon, at their spinning-wheels. The wheels were placed regularly in 
three rows, of one hundred each, and a female was seated at each wheel. 

6. The weavers, also, of the city and its vicinity, appeared on the 
Common, neatly dressed in garments of their own weaving. One of 
them, with Ins loom, was carried on the shoulders of the people, at- 
tended by music ; the music of the shuttle continuing along with the 
rest. The crowd that attended to witness these novel but interesting 
spectacles was immense. 

7. An association of tradesmen and manufacturers of the town of 
lioston was formed in 1785. The Boston Mechanics' Association was 
formed in 1795. The Delaware Society for Promoting American Manu- 
factures was instituted at Wilmington in 1817; and the Scotch loom 
came into Rhode Island the same year. The Maryland Economical 
Association was formed at Baltimore in 1819. 

8. The American Bible Society was formed at New York in 1816. 
Delegates were present from thirty-two societies. It is, moreover, a 
curious fact, that, in view of the want of Bibles in the country, Con- 
gress, in 1777, had ordered twenty thousand Bibles to be imported. 

9. But there had been societies for other purposes, in considerable 
numbers, formed long before the year 1792 — the period at which we 
are now arrived. There was a society for propagating the gospel in 
New England, incorporated in 1649 — for propagating the gospel among 
the Indians in New England and elsewhere, in 1661, and the Society 
for propagating Christian knowledge among the Indians, in 1762. 

8. What of the culture of silk in Connecticut? 4. What society was formed in 1750? 
What building was erected? 5 What was done in 1753? Describe the scene on Boston 
Common. 6. Describe the meeting of the weavers. 7. What other associations were 
formed ? 8. What of Bible societies ? 9. What societies were there prior to 1792 ? 



296 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

10. ]ii more modern times, associations or societies have become 
numerous in all parts of the United States, including those devoted to 
agriculture and other domestic arts ; to religion, to charities of many 
kinds, to literature, science, the fine arts, etc. These societies have 
been the means of promoting, in many ways, the peace, improvement, 
and happiness of the people. 



CHAPTEE CXLII- 

Washington's Administration, Continued. — His Second 
Election. — The French Revolution. — M. Genefs Opera- 
tions. — Jefferson's Resignation as Secretary of State. 

1. Soon after the opening of Congress in 1792, an attempt was made 
to show that Hamilton, the secretary of the treasury, was a dangerous 
man, aiming at the destruction of the liberties and rights of his coun- 
try ; and hints to the same effect were even thrown out against Presi- 
dent Washington himself. 

2. But, notwithstanding all these insinuations, in March, 1793, Wasl> 
ington was declared unanimously re-elected to the presidency, and Mr. 
Adams was again chosen vice-president. Washington had at first de- 
cided not to be again a candidate for this high ofiice, but had at length 
yielded his own wishes to those of the people. 

3. A treaty was this year made with the Indians on the Wabash, 
and the promise of a conference, the next spring, was obtained of sev- 
eral of the other tribes. In the mean time, however, the business of 
enlisting soldiers for an exigency, which might, after all, require them, 
was perseveringly though slowly carried on, and the troops already in 
the service were kept in a proper state of discipline. 

4. Early in 1793, news reached America of a Declaration of War by 
France against England, Spain, and Holland, and caused much excite- 
ment. From the nature of the relation which had subsisted between 
the United States and France during the late war, a majority of the 
people sympathized strongly with the French, and were as strongly 
opposed to Great Britain. 

5. The question therefore arose, whether the government of the 
United States should espouse the cause of either party in the contest. 
This question was finally decided by Washington and his council in 

10. What of societies in more modern times? 

Chap. CXLII. — 1. What attempts were made by some invidious persons about 1792? 
2. When was Washington re-elected president? 8. What treaty was made tbis year, 
1798? What was done in respect to soldiers? 4. What news in 1793? How were tho 
Am^cans disposed ? 5. What question arose ? What was Issued April 22d ? 



THE FRENCH REVOLUTION. 297 

the negative. Accordingly, on the 22d of iVpi-il, President Washington 
issued a proclamation enjoining entire neutrality on the part of the 
United States. 

6. The Revolution in France, which resulted in the execution of the 
king, Louis XVI., and changed the government from a Monarchy to a 
Republic, had commenced about the year 1789. It seems to have been 
brought on, or at least hastened, by the Revolution in the United States. 
The nevv^ republic now recalled the French minister in the United 
States, who had been appointed under the king, and sent over M. 
Genet in his stead. 

7. The principal object for which M. Genet was sent over was, to 
persuade the United States to aid France in the pending war. He 
landed at Charleston, South Carolina, and, being kindly received by the 
constituted authorities there, both on account of the dignity of his 
office and the gratitude which was felt toward the French nation, he 
boldly proceeded to the performance of various unauthorized, and in- 
deed wholly illegal, acts. 

8. He did not hesitate to enlist men, and to arm and lit out privateers, 
to cruise and commit hostilities against nations with whom the United 
States were at peace. When any captures were made, he allowed the 
French consul at Charleston to hold courts of admiralty on them, and 
to try and condemn them, and authorize their sale. 

9. All this was done, too, by M. Genet before the American gov- 
ermnent had recognized him as a minister. He had presumed on a 
disposition to aid France without regard to consequences. Finding 
that the Americans disapproved of his conduct, he endeavored — partly, 
no doubt, in self-defence — to excite them to opposition against their 
own government. 

10. W^hen Congress met, in 1793, they approved of Washington's 
proclamation, as well as of all his conduct in relation to France. They 
also encouraged the president and his cabinet to urge the French gov- 
ernment to recall M. Genet, and appoint a successor. M. Genet was 
therefore recalled, and M. Fauchet appointed in his stead. 

11. The last important event of the year 1793 was the resignation 
of Mr. Jetterson, secretary of state, and the appointment of Edmund 
Randolph, of Virginia, as his successor. Mr. Randolph had been for 
some time attorney-general of the United States, and had sustained the 
office with singular ability. 



6. What of the French Eevolation? What of the new republic? 7. Why was M. 
Geset sent to America ? 8. What did he proceed to do? 9. What did he do on the 
disapproval of the Americans ? 10. What was done by Congress in 1193 ? Wlio was sent 
as French minister to the United States in place of M. Genet? 11. Who succeeded Jef- 
ferson as secretary of state ? What of Mr. Eandolph? 
13* 



298 



HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES 



12. It is necessary to state here that from the beginning of tlie new 
Constitution, some persons had been opposed to it. Among them was 
Mr. Jefferson, who afterwai'd became the head of the Hep uhlican -party, 
which espoused the cause of France, and expressed great hostility 
to Great Britain, during the period to whicli our history now refers. 
The supporters of the Constitution, or Federal government, among 
whom were Washington and Hamilton, were called Federalists. The 
conflicts between the two parties soon shook the country to its foun- 
dation. 



CHAPTER CXLIIL 

Washington's Administration, Continued. — Difficulties 
with Great Britain. 
1. Fears beg;ui to be entertained, in 1794, of another war witli 

Great Britain. The govern- 
ment of that country had issued 
an order in January, 1793, for- 
bidding the exportation of corn 
to France, and authorizing tlie 
seizure of neutral vessels found 
carrying it there. As a conse- 
quence, many American vessels 
had been captured. 

2. Additional instructions 
had also been given, in the 
November following, to British 
ships of war and privateers, to 
take all such vessels as were 
carrying provisions or other 
supplies to France or her col- 
onies. Great Britain, moreover 
had failed to deliver up to the 
United States the Western posts, according to the provisions of th<'. 
treaty of 1783. 

3. In view of these difticulties between the two countries, and the 
uncertainty to what they might lead, Congress, in 1794, passed bills 
for laying an embargo upon ships in our ports for thirty days, for in- 
creasing the standing army, and for organizing the militia and erecting 




12. What of Mr. Jefferson ? What of the two parties, Republicans and Federalists? 

Chap. CXLIII.— 1. What order had erovernment issued in 1793? 2. What was done 
in November? How had Great Britain failed to fulfil her treaty ? 3. What bills were 
passed in 1794? To what office was Mr. Jay appointed? 



THE WHISKEY INSURRECTION. 299 

fortitications. At the same time that these precautionary measures 
were taken, John Jay, of New York, who had been greatly distin- 
guished by his wisdom and patriotism during the Revolution, was ap- 
pointed an envoy extraordinary to the court of Great Britain. 

4. Mr. Jay succeeded, during this and the following year, in making 
a treaty for the settlement of the difficulties between the two coun- 
tries. This, while it met the approbation of a majority of the people 
of the United States, only increased the complaints of those who were 
opposed to the existing administration, and widened the gulf which 
separated the two great political parties. 

5. The conference which had been promised by the Indians of the 
north-west having failed. General Wayne, the successor of General St. 
Clair, was sent out against them in August, 1T94, and succeeded in 
gaining a complete victory on the banks of the Miami, and in laying 
waste their whole country. 

6. The Six Nations, and the other tribes of Indians in their region, 
who had been for some time meditating a great war against the people 
of the United States, were discouraged by the success of General 
Wayne, and gave up their scheme, and hopes were now entertained of 
a permanent peace with them. 



CHAPTER CXLIY. 

Washington's Administeation, Continued. — The Whiskey 
Insurreetion. 

1. CoNGEESs, in 1790, had enacted laws imposing duties on spirits 
distilled within the United States, and upon stills. To these laws four 
or five counties in western Pennsylvania had from the first been 
strongly opposed, but it was not till 1795 that their hostility broke out 
in angry opposition. 

2. In July of this year, about a hundred persons, armed with 
guns and other weapons, attacked the house of an inspector of the 
revenue, and wounded some of the occupants. They also seized the 
district marshal, and compelled him to agree not to persevere in the 
duties of his office. Both the inspector and the marshal found it 
necessary to leave the county for safety. 



4. What did he succeed in doing? What of the two parties in respect to Jay's treaty ? 
5. Where was General VVayne sent in 1794? How did he succeed? 6. What were the 
feelings of the Six Nations and other Indians? 

Chap. CXLIY.— 1. To what laws were some counties in Pennsylvania opposed ? 2. 
What outrages were committed in July, 1794? 



300 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

8. These and other similar outrages called forth a proclamation, on 
the 7th of August, from President Washington, commanding the in- 
surgents to disperse, and warning all persons against aiding them in 
any way whatever, in their rebellious opposition. All officers and 
other citizens were also required to exert themselves to the utmost, to 
prevent and suppress such dangerous proceedings. 

4. On the 25th of September, a second proclamation was issued, the 
object of which was to admonish the insurgents, and induce them, if 
possible, to desist from their opposition. At the same time, however, 
the president declared his fixed determination, in obedience to the 
duty assigned him by the Constitution, " to take care that the laws be 
faithfully executed," and to compel the refractory to obedience. 

5. Meanwhile, the insurgents, nothing daunted, proceeded to almost 
every form of outrage. They first robbed the western mail. Next, 
several thousands of them collected at Braddock's Field, on the Mo- 
nongahela. Still later, a convention of two liundred delegates, from 
the disaffected counties of Pennsylvania and Virginia, met at Parkin- 
son's Ferry, and by adjournment at other places. 

6. Some were for returning to obedience; others adhered to their 
opposition. At length, Washington ordered out fifteen thousand 
militia, under Governor Lee, of Virginia, on the approach of whom the 
insurgents laid down their arras. Eighteen were tried for treason, but 
not convicted. Only three men were killed during the whole progress 
of the insurrection. 

7. The only other historical events of the year 1795, worthy of note, 
were, the ratification, by the Senate of the United States, of Mr. Jay's 
treaty with Great Britain, after a violent opposition by the Republican 
party, in Congress and out of it, and the conclusion of treaties with the 
dey of Algiers, Spain, and the Miami Indians. By the treaty with 
Algiers a number of American citizens were liberated from a most 
painful bondage. 



3. What orders were issued by Washington ? 4. What of a second proclamation ? 5. 
Descnbe the conduct of the insurgents. 6. How were they compelled to lay down their 
arms? 7. What were some other historical events of the year 1795? 



A DM I SSI ox OF TENNESSEE. 301 

CHAPTER CXLY. 

Washington's Administration, Continued. — Adfjnission 

of Tennessee^ the sixteenth State. 

1. Ix 1796, Ten-nes-see' was admitted into the Union, It had been 
made a territorial government in 1790, but the number of inhabitants 
which was necessary to entitle it to be received into tlie confederacy 
was not sufficient till six years afterward. 

2. What is now the great state of Tennessee, with more than a mil- 
lion of inhabitants, was, till about sixty years ago, a part of North 
Carolina. Tlie first settlement attempted to be made in the province 
was in 1754. At that time, about fifty families settled on Cumberland 
River, where Nashville now stands, but were broken up soon after by 
the Indians. 

3. The first permanent white inhabitants of Tennessee went there in 
1757. They built Fort Loudon, now in Blount county. They were at- 
tacked in 1760 by the savages, and two hundred men, women and 
children, were massacred. In 1767, the savages were humbled by Col- 
onel Grant, and a treaty made with them, which encouraged emigra- 
tion. 

4. In 1765, settlements began on the Ilolston River, and gradually 
increased. Still the Indians were troublesome, but were often prompt- 
ly repulsed, especially by Colonel John Sevier, who was the Tennes- 
seean hero of those times. In June, 1776, Colonel Sevier, with the 
militia of Tennessee, and a few soldiers from Virginia, gained a de- 
cisive victory over the savages. 

5. Where Nashville now stands was a wilderness till 1780. During 
that year, about forty families, under the direction of James Robert- 
son, crossed the mountains, and founded Nashville. From this time 
forward, though more or less harassed by the Indians, the progress of 
the state, in population and improvement, was rapid. 

6. In 1785, the inhabitants of the province proposed ,to become a 
state by the name of Franklin ; but the scheme was at length aban- 
doned. In 1789, North Carolina gave up the territory, and in 1790 
Congress recognized it as a separate province, and made provision for 
its government accordingly. 



Chap. CXLV.— 1. What of Tennessee ? 2. What was its condition till about sixty years 
ago ? What settlement was attempted ? 3. What of the first permanent white inhabitants 
of Tennessee ? What of the savages in 1760 and 1761 ? 4. What was done in ]7nr)? In 
1776? 5. In 1780? When was Nashville founded? 6. What was proposed In 1780.' 
When did Congress recognize Tennessee as a separate province? 
2C 



302 HISTORY OF TilE UNITED STATES. 



CHAPTEE CXLYI. 

"Washington's Administration, Continued. — Changes in 
his Cahinet. — Education in the Country. 

1. Two years before the close of Washington's administration, there 
were some modifications of his cabinet. General Hamilton had resign- 
ed the office of secretary of the treasury, and had been succeeded by 
Oliver Wolcott, of Connecticut. General Knox had also been suc- 
ceeded, in the war department, by Timothy Pickering, of Massachu- 
setts. 

2. No considerable change had taken place in the morals and relig- 
ion of the community, during the administration of Washington, not- 
withstanding his own manifestations of regard for good things. The 
country was still flooded with vice and infidelity. The writings of 
Paine and Godwin were circulated in great numbers — sometimes 
gratuitously. 

3. Trade and commerce, however, flourished during this period, 
beyond any former example. In 1797, the exports of the United 
States amounted to nearly fifty-seven millions of dollars, and the im- 
ports to seventy-five millions of dollars. Great progress was made 
in agriculture, and also in manufactures. The population of the Unit- 
ed States had risen to about five millions. 

4. The national credit, moreover, had become established ; an ample 
revenue had been provided ; a considerable part of the national debt 
had been paid ; and such measures had been put in operation as bade 
fair to extinguish the debt in a reasonable time. Treaties had been 
made with most of the Indian tribes, and peace with most foreign 
nations. 

5. A prodigious impulse had been given, during this period, to the 
cause of education. Among the literary institutions which had their 
origin during the short period of Washington's administration, were 
Williams, Union, Greenville and Bowdoin colleges, and the University 
of Vermont. The Historical Society of Massachusetts had its origin, 
also, during the same period. 

6. It was in the year 1795 that the remarkable school fund of Con- 
necticut was formed. The Connecticut reserve lands — now a part of 

Chap. CXLVI. — 1. What changes had been made in Washington's cabinet? 2. What 
of morals and I'eligion during Washington's administration? 3. Describe the increase of 
trade and commerce. What other progress was made ? What ot the population of the 
United States? 4. In what other respects had the country improved? 5. "Wh;it of educa- 
tion at this period ? Colleges ? 



WASHINGTON'S INFLUENCE. 303 

north-western Ohio — were sold for one million two hundred thousand 
dollars, and devoted to this purpose. The fund now amounts to over 
two millions of dollars. In 1796, an act for establishing schools through- 
out the state was passed in Pennsylvania. At the present time, nearly 
every state in the Union gives encouragement to common school edu- 
cation, and high-schools, academies and colleges, in the Union, are al- 
most beyond enumeration. 

7. No man ever had such unbounded influence in the United States 
as Washington — perhaps it is not too much to say, no man ever will 
have. Several other chief magistrates have indeed been extremely 
popular and influential, especially when they had been distinguished 
in military life. Yet even these had not the hearts of the whole na- 
tion at their disposal, like Washington. 

8. Had he been as ambitious as Napoleon, or even as Bolivar, or 
Fraucia, he might have been dictator for life, as well as they. Such 
a course was even proposed to him, in 1782, when it was believed that 
the country was not yet ready for any thing but a qualified monarchy ; 
but he turned from it with disdain. As the leader of a republic, in a 
time which "tried men's souls," no one ever exceeded him in judg- 
ment or patriotism. 



6. What of the school fund of Connecticut? 7. "What of schools, academies and colleges 
at the pre^sent time? Whot can ytiu suy of Washington as chief magistrate? 8. What 
station niiyht he Vh-j". ixei'-l ? What was his chai-acter ? 



304 



HISTORY (;F THE UNITED STATES. 




JOHN ADAMS. 



CHAPTEE CXLYII. 

John Adams's Admlnistkation, fkom Makch Itu, ITliT, to 
March 4th, 1801. — Prospects of a War with France. 

1. The time for electing a chief magistrate was again approaching, 
and Washington having signified his determination to retire to private 
life, it became necessary to bring into the field a new candidate. The 
most ])opnlar individual was John Adams, of Massachusetts, and, on 
opening and counting the votes, in February, 1797, he was found to bo 
elected. Thomas Jefferson was at the same time chosen vice-president. 

2. Although Washington retired from the presidency, and Adam^; 
succeeded him, with the prospects of the country, on the whole, en- 
couraging, yet there was one drawback to the public felicity. This 
was the perplexing character of our relations, as a government, witli 
France. 

3. For a long time before this, France had been committing dep- 



CuAP. CXLVII.— 1. Who became president in 1T»T ? 
drawback was thorc to the public hapj)in('ss? 



Who A'icc-president? 2. 



DIFFICULTIES WITH FRANCE. 305 

vedations on our West India commerce. In the hope of being able to 
adjust, in an amicable way, the existing difficulty, Washington, just 
before his retirement from office, had recalled Mr. Monroe, our min- 
ister at Paris, and appointed General Charles Cotesworth Pinckney in 
his stead, 

4. The French republic refused to receive a new minister till after 
the "redress of grievances" of which they complained. On learning 
the fact, President Adams, in June, 1797, convened Congress, and in 
his address or message, though he spoke of preserving peace if possi- 
ble, yet, as a last resort, he alluded to war. 

5. The result was, that three envoys extraordinary to France were 
appointed, to attempt a settlement of the existing difficulties. They 
were General Pinckney, Elbridge Gerry, and John Marshall. Their 
mission finally proved an entire failure; and the spring of 1798 opened 
with every prospect of war. 

6. Indeed, in a practical point of view, war was already begun. 
The treaty existing between the two countries had, in July, 1797, been 
declared by the United States as no longer binding on their part. The 
French cruisers were continually making depredations upon our com- 
merce, and every opportunity was taken to insult the United States 
government. 

7. In these circumstances, the first step taken by Congress was to 
increase the regular army. Twelve regiments of infantry, one of 
artillery, and one of cavalry, were ordered to be added to the existing 
establishment ; and the president was authorized to appoint such offi- 
cers as might be necessary to render the army efficient. 

8. For commander-in-chief, all eyes were once more turned toward 
Washington ; and notwithstanding his love of retirement and of do- 
mestic and agricultural life, he consented once more to comply with 
the wishes of his country. But, by the merciful appointment of Di- 
vine Providence, the danger of war suddenly disappeared. 

9. The French government having expressed a willingness to settle 
the difficulties which existed, on reasonable terms. President Adams 
appointed Oliver Ellsworth, William R. Davies, and William Vans Mur- 
ray, envoys extraordinary to meet the commissioners of the French. 
They sailed for France in the summer of 1799. 

10. On their arrival in France, they found a change in the govern- 
ment. All power was now in the hands of Napoleon, who had not 



8. What had been done by France ? What new minister had Washington sent to Paris ? 

4. What did the French refuse to do? What did Adams say in his message to Congress ? 

5. What envoys were sent to France? 6. What of the treaty of 1797? What of the 
French cruisers? 7. Whnt steps were taken to increase the regular army? 8. Who was 
looked to as commander-in-chief of the American army ? 9. Who sailed for France In 1795 ? 

26* 



300 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

been concerned in the transactions about which so much difficulty 
existed. A treaty of peace was made, Sept. 30th, 1800; and the army 
of the United States was, by direction of Congress, soon after dis- 
banded. 

11. Before the treaty was made, however, the commander-in-chief 
of the newly-raised American army was no more ! General Washing- 
ton expired suddenly, at his seat at Mount Vernon, in Virginia, Decem- 
ber 14th, 1799, in the sixty-eighth year of his age; and left a whole 
nation to mourn his loss. 



CHAPTER CXLVIII. 

Adams's Administration, Continued. — The Public Health. 
Smallpox. — Yellow Fever. — Cholera. 

1. The introduction of the kine-pox, or, as it was at that time called, 
the cow-pox — or, in more fashionable language still, vaccination — into 
the United States, in the year 1800, is an event which deserves to be 
remembered in our history. The individual to whom the country is 
indebted for this act of benevolence was Dr. BenjaminWaterhouse, of 
Cambridge, Massachusetts. 

2. Smallpox was first known in Europe about the time of the dis- 
covery of America by Columbus ; and, as might have been expected 
on its introduction into a country, was exceedingly fatal. From Europe 
it was soon scattered among the inhabitants of the Western World, 
where it was also very fatal, especially among the Indians, owing, in 
part, no doubt, to their wretched mode of treating it. 

3. As early in the settlement of Massachusetts as the year 1631, 
this terrible destroyer appeared among the natives at Saugus, and 
swept away whole towns and villages. The colonists assisted, it is 
said, in burying entire families of the Indians at once. In one of their 
wigwams a living infant was found at the breast of its deceased mother, 
every other Indian of the place being dead. 

4. Again, in 1633 and 1634, the disease raged in the same fearful 
manner. Holmes, in his " American Annals," says, that "thirty of 
John Sagamore's people were buried by Mr. Maverick, of Wineseme, 
in one day." In 1692, it raged greatly in New Hampshire among the 



10. What treaty was made by Napoleon? 11. When and where did Washington die? 

Chap. CXLVIII.— 1. When was the cow-pox first introduced into the United States, and 
by whom? 2. When was the smallpox first known in Europe? Where was it very fatal? 
8. Describe its first appearance in Massachusetts? 4. AVhen did it again rage ? What 
does Holmes say in his Annals ? Where did it prevail in 1692 ? In 1700? 



THE PUBLIC HEALTH. 30T 

colonists, having been brought there in bags of cotton from the West 
Indies. Again, in 1700. it was fearfully prevalent in Charleston, 
South Carolina. 

5. The first notice we find of its appearance among the white pop- 
ulation of Boston is in the year 1689. In 1702, it was still more prev- 
alent and fatal, and swept otf more than three hundred of the inhab- 
itants. Again it made great havoc in Boston and some of the adja- 
cents towns, in 1721. Inoculation for the disease was now for the first 
time introduced. 

6. The opposition which was manifested to the practice of inocula- 
tion is at this day hardly credible, were it not well attested. Many 
thought that if a person who liad been inoculated should die, his phy- 
sician ought to be treated as a murderer. Dr. Cotton Mather, though 
not a little superstitious himself, labored in vain to remove the vulgar 
prejudices on this subject. 

7. Dr. Zabdiel Boylston was the first physician whom Dr. Mather 
could persuade to stem the torrent of prejudice. He began by inoc- 
ulating his own family. The populace were so enraged, that his family 
were hardly safe in his house, and he was often insulted in the streets. 
And yet it was obvious thai the inoculated disease was comparatively 
mild, and that but few died of it. 

8. But the crowning discovery of all, as a preventive of this fearful 
disease, was that of vaccination, by Dr. Jenner, of England, late in 
the eighteenth century, and first made publicly known in 1796. Much 
praise should be accorded to Dr. Waterhouse for his successful eiforts 
to introduce it in this country. 

9. The yellow fever first prevailed within the present limits of the 
United States, at Philadelphia, about the year 1698, and swept oft* 
great numbers of the people. It had, however, previously appeared 
in the West Indies. In 1728, it was still more fatal in Charleston, 
South Carolina. The physicians knew not how to treat it. Again it 
raged in Charleston most fearfully in 1732. 

10. In the year 1746, it prevailed among the Mohegan Indians, in 
Connecticut, and about one hundred of them died of it. In 1793, it 
was very fatal in Philadelphia, and again in 1797 and 1798. In the 
latter year it raged also in New York, and, for the first time, in Bos- 
ton. It prevailed in New Haven in 1794. It has since appeared at 
intervals in our large cities, and sometimes has caused great mortality. 

11. The cholera, a new and destructive disease, after having raged 

5. When did it first appear in Boston ? What of the further ravages of the smallpox.^ 
6. W^hat of the opposition to inoculation? What of Cotton Mather? 7. "What of Dr. 
Boylston ? How was he treated ? 8. What of Dr. Jenner ? 9, 10. What of the yellow 
fever? Give some account of it. 



308 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

greatly in the East, at length, in 1832, crossed to Canada, and ad- 
vanced, by way of Albany and New York, into the United States, 
where it became, for several years the principal epidemic disease. It 
was much more suddenly fatal, as well as more severe, than common 
cholera morbus. 

12. But the scourge of the United States, in every period of their 
history, especially for a centui-y past, has been consumption. With 
the progress of civilization and refinement, this disease has increased, 
and is likely to continue to increase till the community can be gener- 
ally enlightened with regard to its numerous causes. 

13. The public events of the year 1800, in addition to those which 
have been mentioned, were neither numerous nor important. Agree- 
ably to a resolution of Congress, ten years before, the seat of govern- 
ment was this year transferred to Washington, in the District of 
Columbia.* A law was passed this year, establishing a national sys- 
tem of bankruptcy, but it was repealed three years afterward. 

14. There were also some changes made in the western territories 
this year. A part of the North-Western territory was separated from 
the rest, to be called the Indiana Territory. The Mississippi Territory 
was also erected into a separate government. By the census taken 
this year — the second taken under direction of the government — the 
population of the United States was found to be five million three 
hundred and five thousand four hundred and eighty-two. 

15. During the administration of Mr. Adams, agriculture, trade and 
commerce had continued to flourish, and religion had begun to revive. 
Infidelity, indeed, still stalked abroad, but had greatly altered its tone. 
The good influence of religion upon society had begun to be admitted, 
even by those who did not believe in its divine origin. 

11. What of the cholera? 12. What can you say of consumption ? 13. What of the 
public events in the year 1800? What of Washington ? The District of Columbia? 
What law was passed? 14. What changes were made in the territories this year? What 
of the population of the United States? 15. What of the administration of Mr. Adams? 
Infidelity? 

* The District of Columbia was originally ten miles square ; the part that lies north of 
the Potomac was ceded to the general government by Maryland ; the southern part by 
Virginia. Tuis latter portion was re-ceded to Virginia in 1846. 



JEilERSON ELECTED PRESlDExXT. 3U9 



(Mi'' 




PRESIDENT JEFFERSON. 



CHAPTEK CXLIX. 

Jefferson's Administration, from March 4th, 1801, to 
March 4:Th, 1809. — Choice of Jefferson as President and 
Burr as Vice-President^ hy Congress. 

1. On the 4th of March, 1801, Mr. Adams's term of office, as pres- 
ident, having expired, and the measures of the Federal party, who had 
been the chief supporters of Mr. Adams in the early part of his admin- 
istration, having become somewhat unpopular, Thomas Jetferson, the 
candidate of the Republican or Democratic party, had been elected in 
his stead ; and Aaron Burr had been chosen vice-president. As there 
was no election by the people, the choice for the first time had devolv- 
ed upon Congress. The contest was long and severe. 

2. The method of election, in such cases, was now first to be settled, 
and was fixed upon as follows. The representatives of each state were 
to be seated by themselves, and to ballot by themselves ; each state being 



>OiiAP. CXLIX. — 1. When was Jefferson elected president? In what manner was he 
ejected? What of Aaron Burr? 2. What mode of proceeding was lixfd upon ? 



3iU HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

entitled to only one vote. The doors were to be closed against every 
person but the officers of the house, and, the balloting having once 
commenced, the house was not to adjourn till a choice was effected. 

3. In the present instance, the representatives of the states were 
obliged to baUot thirty-six times before they could effect a choice. At 
the first ballot, eight states had voted for Mr. Jefferson, six for Mr. 
Burr, and two were divided. Of course, neither candidate had a ma- 
jority of the votes. At the thirty-sixth ballot, Mr. Jefferson had the 
votes of ten states, Mr. Burr four, and there were two blanks. 



CHAPTER CL. 

Jefferson's Administration, Continued. — The Settlement 

of Ohio. 

1. In 1802, the eastern part of the North-Western territory was ad- 
mitted to the Union as an independent state, by the name of Ohio. 
There were now seventeen states in the Union. At the time of its 
reception, Ohio contained seventy-two thousand inhabitants. 

2. It was first permanently settled at Marietta, in the year 1788. 
This was a year famous in the history of western emigration, for no 
less than twenty thousand persons — men, women and children — passed 
the mouth of the Mus'-king-um Elver, during the season, on their jour- 
ney down the Ohio ! The party which stopped at Marietta consisted 
of forty-seven persons, under General Kufus Putnam. 

8. Their first business was to build a stockade fort, of sufficient 
strength to resist the ordinary attacks of the savages. Tliey killed the 
standing trees by cutting the bark, taking care, however, to hew down 
enough of them to admit of their planting fifty acres of corn. In the 
autumn, twenty more families joined them. Both of these companies 
were New England people. 

4. The Indians, for many years, gave the settlers of Marietta but 
little trouble. Nor did the latter make war upon or molest the In- 
dians, except in one or two instances. Twice, some of the more 
thoughtless of the settlers fired upon the Indians, when they came 
too near them, by which means one Indian was killed and another 
wounded. 

5. The earliest settlers of Cincinnati, about twenty in number, ar- 

3. What of the ballot in the present case ? Describe the result of the balloting. 
Chap. CL. — 1. What of Ohio in 1802? How many states were there in the Union 

at that time? 2. For what was the year 1788 remarkable? Describe the emigration. 
3. What was their first business? 4. What of the Indians? The settlers? 



PRESIDENT JEFFERSON. 



311 



rived there in 1790, Twenty acres of corn were soon planted, and, for 
food, they shot down game and caught fish. They ground their corn 
in handmills. Their garments were chiefly of their own manufacture. 

6. It has been said that Ohio was first permanently settled in 1788. 
There was a settlement of Christian missionaries and converted Indi- 
ans, from Pennsylvania, formed on the Muskingum Eiver about fifteen 
years earlier; but, after the lapse of a few years, they were gradually 
broken up, and the remnant were massacred some time after. 

7. Until the year 1795, there was much diflSculty in settling most 
parts of this state, on account of the Indian wars. But after the victory 
over the Indians by General Wayne during the administration of Wash- 
ington, the population increased very rapidly, and continued to increase 
till the present time, when it contains about two millions of inhabitants. 



CHAPTEK CLI. 

Jefferson's Administration, Continued. — Cession of In- 
dian Lands. — Duel hetween Burr and Hainilton. — 

Jefferson^ s Second Election, 

1. At the first session of Congress after the election of Jefferson, the 
system of internal taxation, which had 
been introduced during Adams's ad- 
ministration, was repealed, as well as 
several other laws which the new ad- 
ministration did not approve. Many pub- 
lic officers, who were strongly attached 
to the old order of things, were re- 
moved to make w^ay for those who were 
of a different political character. 

2. Louisiana was ceded by Spain to 
France, in 1802, and the United States 
bought it of France for fifteen millions 
of dollars, the next year. Governor 
Claiborne took possession of it in De- 
cember, 1803. By a treaty with the 
Indians at Fort Wayne, a large extent 
of Indian lands were also ceded to the 
HAMILTON. United States this year. Much of what 

5. Describe the settlement of Cincinnati. 6. "What of the first settlement of Ohio? 7. 
What difficulty was there in settling thi? state ? What is its population at the present time ? 

Chap. CLI.— 1. What was done by the first Congress after the election of Jefferson? 
9. Give some histoiy of Louisiana, 




31i2 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

is now the state of Illinois was ceded to us by the Kaskaskies, in 
1803. 

3. In July, 1804, a duel was fought by Aaron Burr, vice-president 
of the United States, with Alexander Hamilton, late secretary of the 
treasury, and a distinguished officer of the Revolutionary war, in 
which the latter was killed at the first fire. The duel took place on 
the New Jersey shore, opposite New York. 

4. The death of Hamilton produced a very deep sensation in the 
United States. He was unquestionably one of the ablest men known 
in the history of our country. But, in accepting the challenge of Burr, 
who sought his life, he was misled by a false notion of honor ; and, in 
an evil hour, consented to take a step which he was too proud to re- 
trace. Few men have been more lamented. 

5. Jefferson was re-elected, and again took the oath of president of 
the United States, March 4th, 1805. George Chnton, of New York, 
was chosen vice-president, This office the latter held by re-election till 
death, which happened in April, 1812. 

6. The following anecdote will show the character of Vice-President 
Clinton. At the close of the Revolutionary war, a British officer, in 
New York, for no crime worthy of notice, was about to be tarred and 
feathered. With a drawn sword in his hand, Clinton rushed in among 
the mob, and, at the hazard of his own life, rescued the officer. 



CHAPTER CLII. 

Jefferson's Administration, Continued. — Wa?' with 
Tripoli. 

1. Ddrino the year 1805 — the first of President Jefferson's second 
term— a war broke out between the United States and Trip'-o-li, which, 
more than almost any other historical event of that period, deserves a 
particular notice. 

2. For many years the inhabitants of the northern states of Africa 
had been known as corsairs or pirates, and the United States, as well 
as other nations, had sufiered greatly from their depredations. The 
Tripolitans, in particulur, had been very troublesome. Many of our 
vessels had been boarded and plundered ; and the crews, in some in- 
stances, had been carried into a captivity worse, if possible, than death 



8. What duel was fought in 1804? Describe it. 4. What can you say of the death of 
Hamilton? 5. Who was re-elected president in 1805? Who was chosen vice-president? 
6. Relate the anecdote of Clinton. 

Chap. CLII.— 1. What war broke out in 1S05? •>. What was tlie character of the 
ro'-thern state? of Africa? The Tr!po^it:^l^? 



WAR WITH TRIPOLI 



313 




COMMODORE BAINBRIDGK. 



8, To protect oiir commerce, as well as to humble the pirates, an 

armed naval force, under Commodore 
Preble, had been sent out to the Medi- 
terranean as early as 1803. In the 
same year the Philadelphia frigate, 
under Captain Bainbridge, had joined 
him, but, in chasing a piratical vessel, 
had run aground anl surrendered, and 
the captain and his crew had been re- 
duced to captivity. 

4. After the surrender of the Phila- 
delphia, the Tripolitans got the vessel 
afloat, and moored her in the harbor. 
While lying there, Decatur, then only 
a lieutenant under Commodore Preble, 
formed a plan to destroy her, to 
wiiich, as it required but twenty men 
and a single officer, the commodore, 
after some hesitation, consented. 

5. To accomplish his purpose, Decatur sailed, under cover of the 
night, in a Tripolitan vessel he had captured, for the Philadelphia, 
taking with him an old pilot, who understood perfectly the Tripolitan 
language. On approaching the Philadelphia, they were hailed ; upon 
which the pilot answered that he had lost his cable and anchor, and 
wished to fasten his vessel to the frigate till morning. 

6. The request was refused, but they were permitted to remain near 
the Philadelphia till the Tripolitans could send ashore to ask per- 
mission of the admiral. As soon as the boat had put off, Decatur and 
his men leaped on board, and in a few minutes cleared the deck of fifty 
Tripolitans. They then set the frigate on fire, and returned in the light 
of it to their squadron. 

7. The plan was as successful as it was daring. Not a man was lost, 
and only one injured. This individual was wounded in defending Deca- 
tur, The latter, in a struggle with a Tripolitan, had been disarmed, and 
was about to have his head smitten olF with a sabre, when the seaman 
reached out his arm and received the blow, and thus saved him. 

8. The destruction of the Philadelphia greatly enraged the Tripoli- 
tans ; and the Americans whom they held in captivity were treated 
with greater severity than before. The sufteriugs of Captain Bain- 
bridge and his crew, and their companions in bondage, were represent- 



3. What of Commodore Preble? The Philiidelphia? 4. What was Decatur's plan? 
5, 6. Describe the execution of this design. 7. What of the man who was injured ? 8. 
What effect had this feat on the Tripolitans ? What of Captain Bainbridge and his men ? 
27 



;14 



HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES, 



ed, lit lioMie, as great beyond endurance, and the public sentiment was 

in favor of continuing the war, 

9. At this juncture, General Eaton, who had been consul of the 

United States up the Mediterranean, and was at Egypt on his return 

homeward, heard of the situation of his countrymen at Tripoli. He 

also fell in at this 
time with Hamet, 
the rightful lieu- 
to the throne of 
Tripoli. Jussuf, 
the third son of 
the reigning ba- 
shaw, to gain the 
throne, had just 
murdered his fa- 
ther and elder 
brother, and also 
sought to destroy 
Hamet, the only 
surviving heir in 

BURNING OP THE PHILADELPHIA. Ms Way. 

10, General Eaton 
was much interested in the story of Hamet, as well as affected by 
the sufferings of his enslaved countrymen. The beys of Egypt, too, 
wer« in favor of Hamet, A league was therefore made between Eaton 
and Hamet, by virtue of which Hamet was to be restored to his throne, 
and the American captives were to be released from their bondage, 

11. Having procured a small number of Americans and a few 
soldiers from Egypt, General Eaton and Hamet crossed the desert of 
Barca and took Derne, the capital of a large province of Tripoli, The 
cause of Hamet had, by this time, become so popular, and their force 
so strong, that they were about to attack Tripoli ; upon which Jussuf 
was glad to make peace with the American consul, Mr, Lear. 

12. This treaty, while it released the captive Americans, did not 
i-estore Hamet to his throne. The latter visited the United States, in 
1805, to solicit some remuneration for the services he had rendered 
General Eaton, and for the losses he had sustained by the premature 
treaty of peace, as he deemed it, made by Mr. Lear ; but Congress did 
not see fit to grant his request. 




9. What of General Eaton ? Who Tvas Ilaniet? What had Jussuf just done ? 10. 
Who were in favor of Hauiet? What league was mndc? 11. What did Hamet and 
Eaton do? Why was Jussuf glad to make peace ? I^. What of Hamet afterward? How 
did Congress treat Hamet's request ? 



BURR'S CONSPIRACY. 



315 



CHAPTER CLin. 

Jefferson's Administration, Continued. — Burr's Corv- 

sjpiraGy. 

1. Onk of the most remarkable events of the year 1806 was the 
Conspiracy^ as it is called, of the late Vice- 
President, Aaron Burr. After the deatii 
of General Hamilton, he had retired to 
a small island in the Ohio Eiver, about 
two hundred miles below Pittsburg, since 
called Blennerhasset's Island. 

2. Here he had set on foot a project 
for forming an independent empire west 
of the Alleghany Mountains, of which he 
was to be the chief or emperor. New 
Orleans was to be the capital. The 
government of the United States, ap- 
prised of his plan, arrested him, brought 
him to Richmond, in Virginia, and put 
him on trial for treason ; but he was re- 
leased for want of proof against him. 

3. Burr found, moreover, that, beside 
the danger of being taken and convicted 

before he coud get liis scheme ftiirly under way, the attachment of the 
Western States to tlie general government was stronger than he had 
before supposed, and that his cunning and intrigue would not avail 
him. 

4. It had been Burr's purpose, in case of the failure of his main 
plan, to proceed, with such forces as he could raise, to Mexico, and 
establish an empire there. But this restless man died without accom- 
plishing the objects to which his ambition had prompted him; and all 
the kingdoms which his imagination had reared descended to the grave 
with him. 

5. In point of talent, Burr was certainly a remarkable man. It was 
liis unbounded ambition and unrestrained selfishness that ruined him. 
Had he aimed, like Washington, at the general good of his country, 
rather than his own aggrandizement, his memory might as well have 
been associated with the latter as with that of Benedict Arnold. 




AAROX BURR. 



Chap. CLIII.— 1. Where had Burr retired after the death of Hamilton? 2. What was 
his plan? What of his trial? 3. What did he find? 4 W^h-.'.t had been his purpose? 
What became of all his schemes? 5. What was his character? 



316 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

6. It was about this period that President Jetferson directed Lewis 
and Clark to explore the Missouri River. With a company of forty ^ 
five men, they proceeded to its source, and then descended down th» 
Columbia to the Pacific Ocean, and returned the same way — traversing 
a distance of some six or eight thousand miles of wilderness in little 
more than two years and four months. The results of this expeditio'"^ 
were a large accession of knowledge in respect to the geography and 
natural history of our country. The party returned in the year 1806. 



CHAPTER CLIY. 

Jejtekson's Administration, Continued. — Troubles with 
Great Britain. — British Orders in Council. — Napo- 
leon's Berlin Decree. 

1. In 1807, Great Britain and France being at war with each other, 
the controversy drew to one side or the other most of the European 
powers ; and there were not a few who would gladly have involved 
the United States in the quarrel. As yet, however, the government 
was determined, if possible, to remain neutral. 

2. One serious difiiculty, indeed, liad arisen. Great Britain, liaviug 
at her command a powerful navy, claimed the right of taking Tier own 
native-born subjects wherever she could find them. In pursuance of 
her purpose, many vessels belonging to the United States had been 
searched, and many individuals on board of them were seized and re- 
tained as British subjects. 

3. As it was not always easy to distinguish American from British 
subjects, this custom of imjn'essrnejit gave great offence to the Amer- 
icans. Thousands of our seamen, it was said, were claimed by the 
British, and, in this way, forced into their service ; and, as if to con- 
tinue and aggravate, instead of trying to remove the grievance, Great 
Britain would not so much as attempt any measures of redress. 

4. Worse than even this difiiculty took place ; for, by an Order in 
Council of the British government, issued May 16th, 1806, declaring 
all the ports and rivers, from the Elbe in Germany, to Brest in France, 
in a state of blockade, American vessels trading to any of these ports 
were liable to be seized and condemned. 

5. This decree of Great Britain was followed, in November, by one 

6. Describe the expedition of Lewis and Clark. When did they return ? 
Chap. CLIV — 1. What of Great Britain and France in 1807? fi. What did Great Britain 
claim ? 3, What of the impressment of our seamen ? 4. What worse difiiculty cxi.^ted ? 



TROUBLES WITH GREAT BRITAIN. 317 

from Bonaparte, dated at Berlin, in Prussia, in which all the British 
islands were declared to be blockaded, and all intercourse with them 
was thus broken up. This decree stood directly opposed to the exist- 
ing treaty between France and the United States, and also to the laws 
and usages of nations. 

6. Again, the British government, in January, 1807, issued another 
Order in Council, forbidding all the coasting trade with France, on 
penalty of capture and condemnation. Nothing could have been better 
calculated than these proceedings to awaken every latent feeling of 
resentment in the Americans against the two nations, if not to involve 
them in the horrors of war itself. 



CHAPTER CLY. 

Jefferson's Administration Continued. — Attach on the 

Chesapeake. 

1. Some time in the beginning of the year 1807, five men had de- 
serted from the British frigate Me-lam'-pus, lying in Hampton Roads, 
and three of them had subsequently enlisted on board the United 
States frigate Chesapeake, then at Norfolk, preparing for sea. The 
British consul at Norfolk, on* being acquainted with the facts, wrote 
to Commodore Barron, of the Chesapeake, requesting that the men 
might be returned. 

2. This request being refused, the British consul applied to the sec- 
retary Qf the navy to surrender them. The secretary ordered an ex- 
amination of the facts, from which it appeared that the men were 
natives of America, of which two of them had official certificates. They 
were not, therefore, given up. 

3. The Chesapeake had been ordered to cruise in the Mediterranean, 
and, on June 22d, she proceeded on her voyage thither. In going out 
of Hampton Roads, she passed the British frigates Bel-lo'-na and Me- 
lampus. As she was passing Cape Henry, the Leopard, another Brit- 
ish frigate, of fifty guns, came up w^th her, and an officer was sent on 
board with a note. 

4. This note enclosed a copy of an order from the British admiral, 
Berkley, requesting them to search for deserters on board all our ships 

5. What decree was made by Bonaparte ? 6. What other order was made by the British ? 

Chap. CLV.— 1. What took place in the year 1807? 2. What did the British consul at 
Norfolk do ? What appeared to be the case concerning the men on board the Ches- 
apeake ? 3. Bescribe the going to sea of the Chesapeake. 4. What demand was made by 
the British admiral ? 
27* 



318 HISTOKV OF THE UNITED STATES. 

found out of the limits of the United States. At the same time a de- 
mand was made to be permitted to search the Chesapeake for the 
deserters from the Melampus. 

5. Commodore Barron, in reply, said, that he did not know of any 
deserters on board ; that the recruiting officers for the Chesapeake had 
been particularly instructed not to receive any deserters from his 
Britannic majesty's ships, and that he was directed never to permit the 
crew of a ship under his command to be mustered by any officers but 
her own. 

6. Upon receiving this answer, the officer returned to the Leopard, 
when she immediately commenced a heavy firing upon the Chesapeake. 
The latter, being unprepared for an action, could make no resistance ; 
but, after remaining under the fire of the Leopard about thirty minutes, 
and having three men killed and eigliteen wounded — the commodore 
among the rest — she surrendered. 

7. The British captain refused to accept .the surrender of the Chesa- 
peake, but commenced a search, and finding the three men on board 
M^hom they claimed to have been deserters, together with a fourth, 
whom they also clauned on the same ground, they took them along 
with them. The Chesapeake, being much injured, returned to Norfolk. 

8. On receiving information of this most shameful outrage, the pres- 
ident, by a proclamation, ordered all armed British vessels to leave the 
waters of the United States, and not to enter them more until satisfac- 
tion was given by the British government for the assault on the Chesa- 
peake. An armed force was also ordered out, sufficient for the defence 
of I^Torfolk, should it become necessary. 

9. The United States government lost no time in forwarding instruc- 
tions to Mr. Monroe, our minister at London, to demand of the. British 
government that satisfaction which the particular case of the Chesa- 
peake required, as well as security against further impressment of sea- 
men from American ships. 

10. The British were ready to enter upon negotiations respecting 
the attack on the Chesapeake, but were unwilling to relinquish the 
right of search. The result was, that the discussion of the subject was 
delayed. In the mean time. Congress came together, when the capture 
of the Chesapeake was one of the first subjects which occupied their 
attention. 

11. Several measures were adopted at this session; among which 
were preparations and appropriations for the support of a large land 



5. "What was Commodore Barron's reply ? 6. Describe the attack of the Leopard. T. 
What did the British captain then do ? 8. What proclamation was issued by the president? 
9. What was next done by the United States government? 10. What of the British? 11. 
What was done by Congress ? What seemed inevitable ? 



IMPENDING WAR 319 

and naval force. On the 22d of December, 1807, an embargo was laid 
on all vessels vs^ithin the jurisdiction of the United States. Meanwhile, 
the difficulties with both the British and French governments were 
increasing, and a speedy war seemed inevitable. 

12, At length, Mr. Rose, a special minister from the British govern- 
ment, arrived in the country, and negotiations were once more attempt- 
ed. But they did not succeed ; nor was the controversy which grew 
out of the attack on the Chesapeake finally settled till some time ii? 
the year 1811, as we shall hereafter have occasion to state. 

, 32. What of Mr. Eose ? What of the Chesapeake controversy ? 



320 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 




PRESIDENT MADISON. 



CHAPTEE CLVI. 

Madison's Administration, from March 4th, 1809, to 
March 4th, 1817. — Madison'' s Inauguration. — Affair 
of the Little Belt. — Stearnhoat Navigation. — Ocean 
Steam Navigation. 

1, On the 4th of March, 1809, James Madison, the candidate of the 
Republican or Democratic party, having been elected president, suc- 
ceeded Mr. Jefferson. George Clinton of New York, who had been 
vice-president since 1804, was now re-elected to that office. The pros- 
pects of the country, at this period, were gloomy indeed. The two 
great nations of England and France were still at war, and, in the 
progress of that war, by their orders and decrees and impressments 
and seizures, were breaking in upon all former treaties, especially those 
with the United States. 



Chap. CLVI.— 1. When did Mr. Madison succeed Mr. Jefferson ? What of George Clin- 
ton? What -was now the state of the country ? 



THE FIRST STEAMBOAT, 



321 



2. As strong encouragement bad been given by Great Britain, in the 
year 1809, before Mr. Jetferson went out of office, of a readiness on her 
part to settle the existing differences between the two countries, the 
embargo had been repealed on the 1st of March. Finding, however, 
that there was still a disposition to delay, the embargo was, on the 
10th of August, renewed. 

3. Thus affairs proceeded for some time. Decrees and prohibitions 
and proclamations became quite the order of the day. Sometimes, in- 
deed, there was a gleam of hope. The probability that the United 
States could long remain neutral, in the existing state of things, was, 
however, every day and every hour diminishing. 

4. On the 16th of May, 1811, the British sloop of war Little Belt, 
commanded by Captain Bingham, made an unprovoked attack upon 
the United States frigate President, commanded by Commodore 
Rodgers ; in the conflict which followed, the Little Belt had eleven 
men killed, and twenty-one wounded, and her rigging was much dam- 
aged, while the President had only a single man wounded. 

5. On the 12th of November, the British envoy, Mr. Foster, ac- 
knowledged the attack on the Chesapeake to be unauthorized, and 
offered, in the name of the British government, to make reparation for 

the injury which had been sus- 
tained. The whole affair was 
therefore soon adjusted to the 
satisfaction of both parties. 

6. The first successful steam- 
boat was put in operation on 
the Hudson in the year 1807, 
it being the acknowledged in- 
vention of Robert Fulton. An 
event so closely connected with 
the prosperity of the United 
States must not be excluded 
from their history. 

7. An experiment had been 
made, with the steam-engine, 
on the Seine, near Paris, in 
1803 ; but no vessel was set in 
motion by steam, in the United 

The two individuals to' whom we 




ROBERT PULTON. 



States, till four years afterward. 



2. What of the embargo ? 3. What was the order of the day ? 4. What was done by the 
Little Belt ? 5. How was the aflfair of the Chesapeake arranged ? 6. What of steamboats ? 
7, What experiment had been made? What of Fulton and Stevens? AVhcn did steam- 
boats appear in Great Britain ? 
14* 



322 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

are indebted for the introduction of steamboats, were Fulton, the in- 
ventor, and Stevens, who aided by his funds and co-operation. They 
were not introduced into Great Britain till 1812 — five years after their 
use in this country, 

8. The first steamboat on the western waters was launched at Pitts- 
burg, in 1813. She was of four hundred tons' burden, and was called 
the Ve-su'-vi-us, She was built to run as a regular trader between 
the falls of the Ohio and New Orleans. A steamboat first ascended 
the Arkansas Eiver in 1820. 

9. Such was the popularity and such the success of these boats, es- 
pecially in the western waters, that, in 1822, nine years after the build- 
ing of the Vesuvius, no less than eighty-nine steamboats were enrolled 
at the port of New Orleans, forming, in the aggregate, something more 
than eighteen thousand tons. The Arkansas River had even been as- 
cended by steamboats five hundred miles. 

10. The first steam-ship sailed for Europe in May, 1819. In 1840, 
there were two regular lines of steam-packets plying between the 
United States and Europe ; one from Boston, and the other from New 
York. At first, ten or twelve miles an hour was thought to be suffi- 
ciently rapid ; now, the Atlantic is crossed in ten days. 

11. The whole number of steamboats, in the diiferent states of the 
Union, in 1840, was estimated at about eight hundred, with a capacity 
of one hundred and fifty-three thousand six hundred and sixty tons. 
Of these eight hundred boats, one hundred and thirty-seven were built 
in the year 1837. The number of steam-engines, of all kinds, in use, 
was estimated at about three thousand. 

12. Since that period, the number of steamboats has greatly in- 
creased, and steam has been most successfully applied to the navigation 
of the ocean. At the present time a large part of the navigation of the 
world is carried on by vessels propelled by steam. 

13. Steam has also been applied to ships of war, and now a large part 
of the national vessels, not only of the United States, but of England, 
France, Russia, and other countries, are propelled by steam power. 



8. Describe the Vesuvius. Wl\at took place in 1820 ? 9. What of steamboats in 1822 ? 
10. When did the first steam-shii) sail to Europe ? 11. What of steam-packets in 1840? 
How many steamboats were biiilt in 1837? W^liat of steam-engines? 12. What of ocean 
)tearn navigation ? 13. What of steamshii)s of war? 



BATTLE OF TIPPECANOE. 



323 





4^^^'^*^ ^;y^..rv^^%#;A'V-''''^ I i 



BATTLE OF TIPPECANOE. 



CHAPTER CLYII. 

Mapison's Administration, Continued. — Indian War. — 
Battle of Ti2?pecanoe. 

1. In the year 1811, Congress assembled on the 5th of November. 
Not only the president's message, but all the proceedings, indicated 
the expectation of a rupture with Great Britain at no distant period ; 
for, though reparation had been made in the case of tlie Chesapeake, 
the Orders in Council remained in full force. 

2. During this year, the Shaw-a-nese' and other Indians about the 
"Wa'-bash River in the territory of Indiana, became troublesome. Gov- 
ernor Harrison, afterward president, with twelve hundred men, three 
hundred and fifty of whom were regular troops, proceeded from the 
neighborhood of Vincennes to Prophet's-town, as the residence of 
their chief was called, to demand satisfaction of the Indians. . 

3. The troops commenced tlieir march September 26th, and nothing 
of importance occurred until their arrival on the line of the enemy's 



Chap. CLVII. — 1. What was expected in the yearlSll? 2. Wh:it of the Indians? 
Who went against them ? 



S'Zi 3IST0RY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

country. Here they built a fort, which, in honor of their commander, 
they called Fort Harrison. At this place they remained about a 
month, during which time the Indians very frequently came into the 
camp, and held councils with Governor Harrison, but would not accede 
to his terms. 

4. Under the circumstances, it was resolved to attack them ; and, 
Avith this view, the troops left Fort Harrison, October 29th, and ar- 
rived at Prophet's-town November 6th. When they were within 
half a mile of the place, they formed in line of battle, upon which 
the Indians sent in a flag of truce, saying that if their lives might 
be spared till next morning, they w^ould agree to the governor's 
terms. 

5. This was a device of the savages to gain time, and put their ene- 
mies off their guard. It was but too successful; and, unsuspicious 
of danger, our troops encamped where they were. Many of them, 
strange as it may seem, slept as quietly all night as if they had been 
at home in the midst of their families. 

6. A little before five o'clock, next morning, the savages came upon 
them with such fury that the sentinels could only fire a single gun 
before they were in the very midst of the camp. Some of the soldiers 
were prepared, but others had to struggle with them at their very tent 
doors. 

7. The battle soon became severe, and the Indians, encouraged by 
the surprise into which they had thrown the troops at the first onset, 
pressed forward in great numbers. The result of the contest for a 
long time was doubtful. The bravery and skill of our troops, how- 
ever, prevailed, and the Indians began to give way ; shortly after this, 
they fled to a swamp, where they could not be followed. 

8. The victory over them was dearly bought. Sixty of the United 
States troops w^ere killed, and one hundred and twenty-eight wounded. 
Among the slain were several able and valuable ofiicers. The loss of 
the savages was great, but the number could not be exactly ascertained. 

9. The next day the troops set fire to Prophet's-town, and having 
destroyed every thing valuable they could find, returned to Yincennes, 
after a fatiguing campaign of about two months. The defeat of the 
Indians, however, was decisive. They gave the settlers in that vicinity 
no more trouble for some time. 

8. Where did the troops encamp ? 4. What was now done by the troops? What did the 
tjrtvagesdo? 5. What of the deceptive device of the savages? 6. Describe the attack, 
licsnlt of the battle ? S. What was the loss of the Americans ? 0. What was done the 
next day ? What etfect had the defeat of the Indians 'i 



WAR WITH GREAT BRITAIN DECLARED. 325 



CHAPTER CLYIII. 

Madison's Administkation, Continued. — War with Great 
Britain declared. 

1. The difficulties with Great Britain were not removed. That 
government still insisted on the riglit of impressment^ as it was called; 
the blockade of her enemies' ports embarrassed and injured us; and 
though the French decrees of Berlin and Milan were repealed, the 
British had not as yet annulled their Orders in Council. 

2. An embargo was laid, on the 3d of April, 1812, by the president, at 
the recommendation of Congress, to continue ninety days, on all vessels 
within the jurisdiction of the United States. This was the prelude to 
war with Great Britain, which was declared on the 18th of June fol- 
lowing. Tims began the Second War with Great Britain, which 
continued till the peace of Ghent, December 24th, 1814. 

3. The bill for the declaration of war did not pass, however, without 
opposition. Though generally supported by the Democratic party, it 
was condemned by some of its members, and was resisted by the other 
party, the Federalists, with great unanimity. Forty-nine, out of one 
hundred and twenty-eight of the representatives, entered their solemn 
protests, in which they denied the war to be either necessary or just. 
Indeed, it only passed the senate by a very small majority. 

4. Nor was the measure very well received by the people after the 
bill passed. The editors of several newspapers in different parts of 
the country, were very decided in their expressions of disapprobation ; 
so much so as to provoke the violence of the war party and cause 
mobs and riots. 

5. The most remarkable of these mobs was at Baltimore. The 
rioters first tore down the printing-oflice of the paper which had of- 
fended them. The editor and others undertook to defend themselves 
with arms. The military force of the city was finally called out. 
The conflict was severe, and was continued for two or three nights; 
General Lingan was killed, and several were wounded. 

6. So poorly prepared was the country for war, and so difficult was 
it found to enlist soldiers, that a demand was made by the president on 
the governors of the states to furnish men from the militia of their 

Chap. CLYIII.— 1. What of the difficulties with Great Britain ? 2. WHiat of an embargo 
laid in April, 1S12 ? When was war declared with Great Britain ? 3. How did the bill pass ? 
4. What of the editors of papers ? 5. Describe the mob at Baltimore. 6. Was the coun- 
try well prepared for war ? What demand was made by the President? What refusal 
followed ? 
28 



S'26 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

several states, to guard their own seaboard. But this Massachusetts, 
Connecticut, and Ehode Island refused to do. 

7. The grounds of this refusal were, that the militia, if sent under 
the call of the president, would be subject to the officers of the 
regular army, and might be marched into Canada, or to any other part 
of the country ; and this, it was contended, was not agreeable to the 
constitution. 

8, This refusal produced a great sensation throughout the United 
States, but was fully justified by a large majority of the people of the 
several states which thus withheld their militia from the demand of 
the general government. It was severely condemned, however, by 
some other portions of the country, especially those of the Democratic 
party. ^^^^ 

CHAPTEE CLIX. 

Madison's Administkation, Continup:d. — General HulVs 
Surrender to the British at Detroit. 

1. We have seen that, as the war advanced, a part of the states refused 
to call out their militia at the request of the president. Connecticut, 
however, proceeded to raise troops for her own defence, and to organize 
and station them, at various points along the coast, in her own way. 

2. It was also found difficult to enlist regular troops, and still more 
so to find suitable officers for them. The few already in the service, 
and such as could be readily enlisted, amounting to two thousand, were 
sent away to the north-west, and placed under General Hull, an aged 
man who had served in the war of the Eevolution, and who was at this 
time governor of Michigan Territory. 

3. General Hull, with his troops, was ordered to Detroit, to garrison 
the fort there, and protect the country from the incursions of the 
British and Indians. He arrived early in July, 1812, and having put 
every thing in a posture of defence, he crossed the river Detroit July 
12th, and made preparations to invade Upper Canada. 

4. But, instead of invading Canada, or even attacking a single post, 
lie remained there till the 7th of August, and then returned, with his 
army, in the night, to Detroit. After a few slight battles and a good 
deal of skirmishing, he surrendered his army, August 16th, with the 
fort of Detroit, and all the neighboring forts and garrisons, to the 
British, under General Brock. 

7. What were the grounds of the refusal ? 8. TVhat of the people ? 
CiiAP. CLIX.— 1. What (lid Connecticut do? 2. What was the state of the ITnitcd 
States troops? 3. What was done by General Hull ? 4. Describe his surrender. 



CAPTURK OF THE GUEURIERE AND ALERT. 327 



5. This unexpected surrender, at the very outset of the war, cast a 
gloom over the whole country. General Hull was everywhere re- 
garded, whether justly or unjustly, as either a coward or a traitor. 
Having been exchanged, soon afterward, for thirty British prisoners, 
he was subsequently tried by a court-martial and sentenced to death ; 
but, on account of his age, he was recommended to the mercy of the 
president, who finally pardoned him. 

6. General Hull was tried for three things — treason, cowardice, and 
unofficer-like conduct. On the first charge, the court-martial which 
tried him did not give an opinion; but he was found guilty -on the 
other two. He was, most evidently, unfit to command an army, either 
by reason of age, or from other causes, and ought never to hav** been 
charged with so important a trust. 






,/'/" 




BATTLE BETWEEN THE JCSbKX AND ALERT. 

CHAPTEK CLX. 

MxIdison's Administration, Continued. — Cajpture of th" 
Guerriere and the Alert. 

1. While the war was commenced so unhappily on land, it was far 
otherwise on the sea. Though Lord Nelson and others, by their skill, 
had rendered Great Britain the mistress of the ocean, she was yet to 



5. What was the consequence of General ?Iull's act ? How was he reparded ? 6. For 
what was he tried ? 



328 



HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 



be humbled by a power whose naval force she had been accustomed to 
despise from its apparent insignificance. 

2. The United States, at the opening of the war of 1812, had three 
frigates of forty-four guns each, three of thirty-eight, five of from 
twenty-eight to thirty-six, and nine sloops, varying from twelve to 
eighteen guns. These twenty vessels constituted their whole naval 
armament ; and even of these, one was on Lake Ontario, and two were 
unfit for sea. The British navy consisted of from eight hundred to one 
thousand ships ! 

3. Commodore Rodgers, with his little fleet, the President, the Essex, 
and the Hornet, lay at New York when war was declared. Within 
an hour after he heard the news, he and the Hornet were under way» 
On the 23d of June, only five days after the war was declared, he fell 
in with and attacked the British frigate Bel-vi-de'-ra, of thirty-six guns, 
but she escaped. 

4. This, however, was only a beginning. The Constitution, of forty- 
four guns, commanded by Captain Isaac Hull, sailed from the Chesa- 
peake Bay about the middle of July. She was soon chased by a Brit- 
ish fleet, and the chase continued, with some firing, for several days; 
but the Constitution succeeded in escaping. 

5. Meanwhile the Essex, com- 
manded by Captain, afterward 
Commodore Porter, which was 
not ready for sea when Commo- 
dore Rodgers attacked the Belvi- 
dera, having made the necessary 
repairs, sailed, and, after having 
taken several prizes, on the 13th 
of August fell in with the Brit- 
ish sloop of war Alert, of twen- 
ty guns, which she took, after an 
action of only eight minutes. 

6. This was the first armed 
vessel which was taken by the 
Americans during this war. It 
was not surprising that a frigate 
of thirty-two guns should van- 
quish a sloop of twenty ; and yet 

; that a vessel of the size of 




COMMODORE PORTBR. 



it was not expected by our sailor 



Chap. CLX.— 1. What of the British navy? 2. What vessels had the United States 
at the commencement of the war? What had the British? 3. Whq.t ships had Com- 
modore Kodgers ? What did he do on hearing the news of the war ? W^hat of the Bel- 
videra? 4. Describe the chase of the Constitution. 5. Describe the capture of the Alert 
by Captain Porter. 6. What can you say of the two vessels ? 



ATTACK ON QUEENSTOWN. 329 

the Alert would make so feeble a resistance. The Essex was not in- 
jured, nor a man hurt; while the Alert was greatly crippled, and had 
three men wounded. 

7. This naval battle was fought three days before General Hull's 
surrender. Three days after the surrender, another event took place 
which was still more remarkable, both with respect to its character 
and the final results, than the former. It was the capture of the Brit- 
isli frigate Guerriere. 

8. On the lOtli of August, the Constitution came up with this frigate, 
commanded by Captain Dacres, and carrying thirty-eiglit guns, about a 
thousand miles eastward of New England, and in two hours made her a 
complete wreck ; so much so, that it was thought best to destroy her. 

9. The loss of the Constitution, in this contest, was seven killed and 
seven wounded ; while the Guerriere had fifteen killed and sixty-three 
wounded. The Constitution was so little injured as to be ready for 
another action the very next day. Yet the force of the American 
frigate was but little more than that of the enemy. 

10. These brilliant events at sea had some efiiect in atoning for our 
loss on the land. Besides, they encouraged our navy. It had been 
thought, for some time, tliat nothing could vanquish the British — force 
for force ; but it now began to be thought otherwise. 



CHAPTER CLXI. 

Madison's Administkation, Continued. — Attack on 

Queenstoion. 

1. As early as the 1st of October, 1812, eight or ten thousand men, 
with military stores, were collected at various points along the Cana- 
dian line, chiefly, however, in three great divisions — the North-western, 
the Eastern and the Northern armies. Measures had also been taken 
for arming vessels on the three lakes, Erie, Ontario and Champlain. 

2. The north-western army was commanded by General Harrison, 
and was stationed in the neighborhood of Detroit. The central divi- 
sion was directed by General Stephen Van Kensse'-la-er, and stationed 
at Lewiston, just below Niagara Falls. The army of the north, under 
Major General Henry Dearborn, who was also commander-in-chief, 
was at Greenbush and Plattsburg. 

7. What event of importance soon occurred ? 8. Describe the captiire of the Guerriere. 
9. What was the loss sustained by the two frigates? 10. How did these events atfect the 
United States navy ? 

Chap. CLXI.— 1. What was done October, 1818? 2. How were the three divisions of 
the army commanded ? 
28* 



330 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

3. On the 13th of October, early in the morning, a part of the army 
at Lewiston succeeded in crossing the Niagara River to Queenstown, and 
in taking possession of the battery on the heights. But they were not 
able to maintain their position, for they were only a few hundreds, and 
most of the men at Lewiston were militia, and refused to follow them 
as they had promised to do. 

4. The commander of the Heights, General A^au Rensselaer, was now 
in a most perilous situation. He had indeed already repelled one 
attack from six hundred British regulars, and killed General Brock, 
their commander. But General Sheafe, his successor, renewed the 
attack with an increased force, and the Americans were at length com- 
pelled to surrender. 

5. Nothing could have been more unexpected than the refusal of 
the American militia to cross the Niagara. They had but just before 
been urgent for the battle, and now they utterly refused to embark. 

6. General Brock was much lamented by the' inhabitants of Canada, 
and a beautiful monument was erected to his memory, on the heights 
of Queenstown, where he fell. An attempt was made, a few years 
since, to destroy this monument ; and, though it was not quite suc- 
cessful, the monument was seriously injured. The villains were never 
discovered. 

7. The attack on Queenstown was followed, in November, by a few 
bullying efforts, above the falls, on the part of General Smyth. He 
was the successor of General Van Rensselaer — the latter having re- 
signed. He sent two detachments across, in the night, to Black Rock ; 
but they accomplished very little. The troops soon went to winter- 
quarters, and Smyth, being hissed from the army, w^ent home to 
Virginia. 

8. Thus ended the war against Canada for that year. Never, per- 
haps, was less accomplished, under circumstances so favorable, than 
was done by the Americans, in this campaign of 1812. On the 26tli 
of September, they had a force of thirteen thousand men on the fron- 
tier, more than six thousand of whom were regulars ; while the Brit- 
ish could scarcely muster three thousand troops on their whole line, 
from west to east, 

3. What was done October 13th ? 4. What of the comuiander of the Heights ? 5. The 
militia? 6 What monument was erected to the memory of General Brock ? What at- 
tempt was made ? 7. What of General Smyth S. What of the war against Canada for 
the year 1812 ? 



NAVAL VICTORIES. 331 



CHAPTER CLXII. 

Madison's Administkation, Continued. — More Naval 
Yictories. 

1. The success of the naval forces of the United States for this year, 
1812, was, throughout, as brilliant as the conduct of the land forces was 
disgraceful. Where least was expected, and where there was least rea- 
son to expect any thing, there the most heroic bravery — not to say the 
most unprecedented skill — was manifested. 

2. On the 18th of October, the United States sloop Wasp, of eight- 
een guns, commanded by Captain Jones, came up with and captured 
the British sloop Frolic, Captain Wynyates, of nearly the same size 
and force, eight hundred miles eastward of Norfolk, in Virginia. The 
action lasted about three-quarters of an hour. 

3. Both vessels were much injured in the engagement, but the Wasp 
suffered most in her rigging. She had only five men killed and five 
wounded. The fire of the Wasp evidently fell below the rigging of 
the Frolic; for the latter had at least seventy or eighty killed or 
wounded. Indeed, it M^as said that not twenty of her men escaped 
wholly unhurt. 

4. The Frolic had scarcely submitted to the Wasp, when a British 
seventy-four gun sbip hove in sight — the Poictiers — and immediately 
bore down upon them. As they were in no situation either to escape 
or make a defence, they were forthwith taken and carried into Ber 
inuda. 

5. One week later than this, viz., October 25th, a still more remark- 
able victory was obtained by our little navy. The United States, 
another forty-four gun ship, commanded by Commodore Decatur, who 
had distinguished himself so much at Tripoli, fell in with and cap- 
tured the British frigate Macedonian, Captain Carden, rated at thirty - 
eight guns, but really carrying forty-nine. 

6. This action took place in the Atlantic Ocean, about seven hun- 
' dred miles southward of the Azores. It lasted an hour and a half, and 

was very fatal to the crew of the Macedonian. Out of her comple- 
ment of three hundred men, she had more than a hundred killed and 
i wounded, while the United States had but seven killed and five 
wounded. 

Chap. OLXIL— What was the success of the naval force of the United States for the 
) year 1812 ? 2. Describe the engagement of the Wasp and the Frolic. 3. What was the 
I loss on both sides ? 4. How were the Wasp and her prize captured? 5. What of Com- 
modore Decatur? G. Describe the actiuu between the United States and Macedonian? 



332 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

7. One of those killed on board the Macedonian was the carpenter. 
As he was known to be in destitute circumstances, and to have left a 
family of helpless children with a worthless mother, his brave com- 
panions immediately held a contribution, and raised eight hundred dol- 
lars, to be put in safe hands, for the education of the unhappy orphans. 

8. Sailors are apt to be generous. It is not always, however, that 
they make so wise an application of their charities as in this case. 

9. Another victory was achieved by our brave tars before the year 
closed. Captain Hull had retired from the service, and had been suc- 
ceeded in the command of the Constitution by Commodore Bainbridge. 
On the 29th of December, while off the coast of Brazil, the British 
frigate Java, of forty-nine guns, came in sight, and a battle ensued. 

10. The engagement was severe from the first. It had continued 
nearly two hours, and nearly two hundred men had been killed or 
wounded on board the Java, when she was compelled to strike her 
colors. She was so much injured that it was concluded, a few days 
afterward, to burn her. The loss of the Constitution was hardly one- 
sixth as great as that of the Java. 

11. On board the Java, during the battle, was an American pris- 
oner, in confinement. Anxious to know the issue, he often asked a 
Chinese, who was stationed near him, how the battle was going on. 
" Oh, a glorious victory," was the reply always. Not satisfied with 
this, especially as he saw so many wounded men brought below, he 
asked loMch side was about to gain the mctory. "Why," said the 
Chinese, " one or t'other." 



CHAPTER CLXIII. 

Madison's Administration, Continued. — Louisiana ad- 
mitted to the Union. — Mediation of Russia between the 
United States and Great Britain offered. — Madison re^ 
elected. — Various Events of 1S12 and 1813. 

1. Seveeal other interesting events in our national history took 
place during the years 1812 and 1813. One of these was the admission, 
in the course of the former year, of Louisiana to the federal union. 
She was the eighteenth pillar of the great national fabric, and a most 

7. What was clone for the family of the carpenter on board the Macedonian ? 8. Char- 
racter of sailors ? 9. Who succeeded Captain Hull? What of the Java? 10. Describe 
the engagement? What was the loss of the two ships? 11. What jiassed between the 
American prisoner and the Chinese ? 

Chap. CLXIII.— 1. What of Louisiana? 



RE-ELECTION OF MADISON. 333 

important one, as she liolds the keys of entrance, through the mouth 
of the mighty river Mississippi, to the richest, if not the most extensive 
valley in the world. 

2. The American Board of Commissioners for Foreign Missions was 
also incorporated in 1812 ; and five missionaries were ordained at 
Salem to preach the gospel at Bom-bay', in Asia. They were the first 
foreign missionaries ever ordained here. Yet the same board, in 1842, 
thirty years later, sustained no less than one hundred and thirty-four 
of these foreign missionaries. 

3. Very early in the year 1813, the Emperor of Russia kindly 
offered to try to make peace between Great Britain and the United 
States ; and Albert Gallatin, James A, Bayard, and John Quincy 
Adams, were appointed as commissioners, and sent to Russia to meet 
such commissioners as the British might appoint, and, if practicable, 
to make a treaty between the two countries. 

4. The term for which Mr. Madison had been elected president ex- 
pired on the 4th of March, 1813, and a strong effort was made, by the 
party opposed to the war, to elect De Witt Clinton in his stead ; but 
they did not succeed. Mr. Madison was re-elected, and George Clin- 
ton was also re-elected vice-president ; the latter died soon after, and 
was succeeded by Elbridge Gerry, of Massachusetts. 

5. Cotton manufactories began to flourish this year, 1813. In the 
neighborhood of Providence, Rhode Island, one hundred and twenty 
thousand spindles were in operation, consuming six million pounds of 
cotton yearly. About the end of the year, twenty thousand or thirty 
thousand spindles were running at Baltimore. Yet, in 1809, not a 
thread of cotton was spun by machinery in this country. At present 
the manufacture of cotton in the United States, is one of the leading 
industrial interests of the nation. 

6. This year, 1813, moreover, was remarkable for two more events, 
the birth of the Massachusetts Society for the Suppression of Intem- 
perance, which has led the way to so much good in the United States, 
and the death of him who may be justly considered as the father of 
our temperance societies, Dr. Benjamin Rush. 

2. When was the American Board of Commissioners first incorporated ? What of 
foreign missionaries? What of the board in 1842? 3. What of the Emperor of Russia ? 
Who were sent as commissioners? 4. Who now were re-elected president and vice-presi- 
dent ? What of Elbridge Gerry ? 5. What of cotton manufactories at Providence ? At 
Baltimore? 6. What two events of importance occurred in 1813? 



334 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES, 



CHAPTER CLXIY. 

Madison's Administkation, Continued. — The Massacre at 
Frenchtown. 

1. We have seen that the north-western division of the United 
States army was stationed in the neighborhood of Detroit, and was 
under the command of General Harrison. There, too, they wintered, 
1812-13. General Harrison's plan was to collect a suflBcient force in 
that region, and, as soon as he could, retake Detroit, and the other forts 
and places which General Hull had so unwisely surrendered. 

2. Early in January, news came from the Americans at Frenchtown, 
a place twenty-six miles from Detroit, that the British and Indians were 
coming against them ; praying, at the same time, for assistance. General 
Winchester, with eight hundred men, marched thither, and succeeded 
in driving away the British and Indians, who had already arrived, but 
was, in his turn, driven away by the British, on the 23d inst., and him- 
self and five hundred men taken prisoners. 

3. Their surrender was followed by a scene almost too shocking to 
describe. General Proctor, the British commander, had pledged his 
honor that the lives and private property of the American soldiers 
should be respected after the surrender. But, instead of this, the dead 
were stripped and scalped, by the Indian allies of the British — the 
wounded, such as were unable to rise, butchered, and the living 
stripped and plundered, and many of them tomahawked, or only re- 
served to be roasted at the stake. Few of them lived to be exchanged. 

4. It is maintained by some that General Proctor could not have 
prevented these barbarities. It is difficult, however, to believe this. 
The bare thought of such a massacre is shocking, whether it could 
have been avoided or not. It exhibits, in a most striking manner, the 
horrors of war, especially of Indian warfare. 

5. What rendered this massacre at Frenchtown more afflicting was 
tlie fact that most of the troops were of the very flower of Kentucky. 
They were, many of them, young men who had a large circle of re- 
spectable relatives. Their bodies lay in the fields till autumn, when 
their friends ventured to collect their bleaching bones and bury them. 

6. The news of General Winchester's defeat reached General Har- 
rison while on his march to Frenchtown with reinforcements. Find- 



Chap. CLXIV. — 1. What was General Harrison's plan? What portion of the army did 
he command? 2. What news came from the Americans at Frenchtown? What of 
General Winchester ? 3. Describe the scene after the surrender. 4. What opinion is 
he'd of General Proctor? 5. What of the American troops that fell at Frenchtown? 6. 
What did General Harrison now do? 



CAPTURE OP YORK 



335 



ing himself too late, he stopped at the rapids of the river Mau-mee' and 
built a fort, which, in honor of the governor of Ohio, he called Fort 
Meigs. This he made, for the present, the head-quarters of his army. 



CHAPTER CLXY. 

Madison's Administration, Continued. — Cajptiire of ITork^ 
and Death of General Pike. 

1. Lii-Ti.E, if any thing, was done, during the year 1812, to increase 
the naval force of the United States, either 
on the ocean or the lakes. Commodore 
Ohauncey had indeed been sent to Lake 
Ontario, about the 1st of September, to fill 
up the Oneida, a vessel of sixteen guns, and 
to arm half a dozen schooners, and thus 
form a little squadron. There had also 
been some skirmishing upon the lake. 

2. The next spring. General Dearborn 
laid a plan to attack York, in Upper Can- 
ada, the great depository of the British 
military stores. His troops, amounting to 
seventeen hundred men, embarked, about 
the middle of April, on board Commodore 
Chauncey's vessels, and, on the 25th, they 
set sail for York. 

3, The army was directed by General 
Pike, a young man of great promise, who had requested the command 
as a favor. They landed at York on the 27th. As they were mov- 
ing toward the garrison, a magazine exploded, which the British had 
prepared for the purpose, and which mortally wounded General Pike 
and killed about a hundred of his men. 

4. General Pike did not die, however, though his head was literally 
crushed by the heavy stone w^hich fell on it, till he had seen tlie town 
and all the barracks, and fortifications, and stores, and seven hundred 
and fifty of the enemy, in the possession of his victorious troops. The 
loss, in killed and wounded, was great on both sides, but greatest oix 
the side of the Americans. 




GENERAl, PIKE. 



Chap. CLXV. — 1. What of Commodore Chauncey ? 1. What plan was laid by Gen- 
eral Dearborn ? 8. How was the army directed ? What was the fate of General Pike 
and a part of his troops? 4. What did he, however, live to see ? Loss on both sides' 



33G HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

5. Zebulon M. Pike, who lost his life in this engagement, was a 
native of New Jersey, and was not only well instructed, but rendered 
healthy and robust by active exercise. As his father had been an 
officer in the Revolutionary army, the son was trained to military life, 
and was early made a lieutenant on the western frontiers. 

6. About the time when Lewis and Clarke were sent on an explor- 
ing tour up the Missouri, Lieutenant Pike, with twenty men, and pro- 
visions for four months, was sent up the Mississippi. The company set 
out August 5th, 1805. Instead of four months, however, they were ab- 
sent nine months, exposed to almost every danger and hardship. 

7. Sometimes they were wholly without food for several days to- 
gether. At other times, they slept, without any covering, upon the bare 
ground, or upon the snow ; for they were out all winter, and the sea- 
son was unusually severe. Sometimes they were obhged to leave their 
boat and build canoes ; and sometimes they carried their canoes, from 
place to place, on their backs. 

8. Though sent to acquire information, they had no surveyor or 
clerk with them but Pike. He was, as he justly says of himself, at 
once the commanding officer, clerk, astronomer, surveyor, spy, guide, 
and hunter of the party. He kept his journal and drew all his sketches 
by the fire at night in the open air. 

9. In two months after his return, he was sent out by General 
Wilkinson to obtain geographical and other information on the borders 
of New Mexico. Again he was out the whole winter, unprotected. 
All the horses belonging to the party died, and all the men, except 
Pike himself, were more or less frozen. 

10. But these were not all the trials to which he was exposed. Un- 
expectedly, they found themselves upon the banks of the Rio del Norte, 
within tlie Spanish territory. Here they were seized by a band of Span- 
ish cavalry, and, what was worst of all. Pike's instruments and papers, 
except his private journal, were taken from him. The party were, how- 
ever, at length all liberated, and in July, 1807, reached Natchitoches. 

11. Such was the education, properly so called, of this most inter- 
esting young man, who, at the age of thirty -three, became a brigadier- 
general in the American army, and, at thirty-four, begged the favor 
of leading the American troops in an attack on York,* to die, like 
Wolfe, before Quebec, in the moment of victory. 

5. What of Greiicral Pike's early life ? fi. What of his expedition up the Mississippi? 
7. Describe the sufferings of the men. 8. What stations were held by Pil^e ? 9. What 
other expedition did he undertake? 10. What happened to the ]>arty? 11. What was 
Pike's age at the time of his death ? 

* York, sometimes called Utile ¥01% and now bearing its original Indian name of 
Toronto, is situated on the north-west shore of Lake Ontario, about thirty miles north 
of Niagara. 



THE WAR ON THE OCEAN. 339 

eight wounded. When tlie battle was over, both vessels sailed for 
Halifax, where Captain Lawrence, after suffering the most intense 
anguish for five or six days, expired. 

6. Captain Lawrence was thirty-two years of age, and much beloved. 
As a proof of the attachment of his younger officers to him, the fol- 
lowing anecdote is related. The midshipmen of one of our squadrons 
gave a dinner to Commodore Rodgers one day, at which it was pro- 
posed not to ask any lieutenant. " What, not Mr. Lawrence ?" said, 
one. It was decided immediately to have Lawrence present ; but no 
other lieutenant was there. 

7. The unexpected issue of this battle may have been owing, in part, 
to the neglect of those whose duty it was to pay the men their prize- 
money. The Chesapeake had been cruising, and had taken prizes, and 
the men had not been paid their share ; and, though some sort of an 
apology had been made, many were not satisfied. 

8. Among the disaffected ones was the boatswain's mate. When 
the British boarded the Chesapeake, this man quitted his post and ran 
below, leaving the gratings open, so that the men readily followed his 
example. When the officers attempted to rally their men to repel the 
enemy, they could not find them. The boatswain's mate was heard 
to say, as he retreated, " So much for not having paid men their prize- 
money." 

9. A battle was fought on the 22d of June of this year, 1813, at 
Craney Island, in the Chesapeake Bay, between a large British fleet, 
which was cruising there, under Sir Sidney Beckwith and Admiral 
Warren, and some American officers and sailors of the navy with a 
body of Virginia militia. The British were defeated, with a very 
heavy loss. 

10. In less than two months after the capture of the Chesapeake, the 
American navy experienced another reverse of fortune in the loss of 
the Argus, of eighteen guns. She was captured by the Pelican, of 
twenty guns, after a hard-fought battle, in which her first officer and 
five men fell, and sixteen were wounded, 

11. The Argus had been out to France, to carry Mr. Crawford, our 
minister, and was on her return. She had taken quite a number of 
prizes on the very coast of Great Britain, and so much annoyed the 
enemy that several vessels had been sent out in search of her. Among 
these was the successful Pelican. 



5. What was the loss of the contending parties ? Where did the ships go after th® 
battle ? 6. Give the anecdote of Lawrence and the dinner. 7. To what was the issue of 
this contest owing? 8. What was done by the boatswain's mate? 9. What battle was 
fought on the 22d of June? 10. "What of the engagement between the Argus and the 
Pelican ? II. Describe the cruise of the Argus. 



340 



HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 



12. But the tide of victory at length began to turn. On the 5th of 
September, the Enterprise took the British brig Boxer, after a hard- 
fought battle of half an hour, in which she lost but one man, her com- 
mander, Lieutenant Burrows ; while the loss of the British was consid- 
erable, including, also, her commander, Captain Blythe. A still more 
important triumph of the American navy was at hand. 



CHAPTEE CLXYIII. 

Madison's Administration, Continued. — Battle on Lake 

Erie. 

1. A SMALL American fleet had been collected on Lake Erie during the 

year 1813, consisting of nine ves- 
sels, carrying, in the whole, fifty- 
five guns, and placed in the care of 
Commodore Oliver H. Perry. Fol- 
lowing our example, as they had 
also done on Lake Ontario, the 
British had their little fleet to op- 
pose it, consisting of six vessels and 
sixty-three guns. 

2. These fleets, after some skir- 
mishing, came at length to close 
action. It was the 10th of Septem- 
ber, 1813. The battle was severe, 
and it was for a long time difficult 
to guess at the result. At length 
the British seemed to have the ad- 
vantage. The Jjawrence, the Amer- 
ican commodore's own vessel, became so crippled as to be almost un- 
manageable. 

3. At this critical moment. Commodore Perry abandoned his own 
vessel, and went, in a boat, on board the Niagara, his second ship, 
commanded by Captain Elliot. Before this, the firing had almost 
ceased, and the British commander. Captain Barclay, counting on 
certain victory, though he was himself wounded, would not have given, 
as he said afterward, a sixpence for the whole American fleet. 

4. But the scene now changed. The battle waxed hot again, and, 

12. What of the action between the brig Boxer and the Enterprise ? 

Chap. CLXVIII.— 1. Wliat fleet was under the command of Commodore Perry? What 
fleet had the British on Lalcc Erie ? 2. What of the skirmishing and the battle ? 3. What 
was done by Commodore Perry ? What did the British Captain Barclay suppose? 




COMMODORE PERRY. 



BATTLE AT THE MORAVIAN TOWNS. 341 

in about four hours after its iirst commencement, the British fleet sur- 
rendered to the American. The loss of the Americans was twenty- 
seven killed and ninety-six wounded ; that of the British was some- 
what greater, besides the prisoners, 

5. Commodore Perry wrote to General Harrison immediately after 
the battle, and also to the war department. In both instances he was 
as modest as he was laconic. To General Harrison he only said, " We 
have met the enemy, and they are ours. Two ships, two brigs, one 
schooner, and one sloop." To the secretary of war he said little more, 
except to refer to the good providence of God. 

6. The commodore has been much censured for hazarding his life, 
in going from the Lawrence to the Niagara, in a small boat, in the 
midst of shot thick as hail. But we must remember that the Lawrence 
was useless ; that there w^as danger everywhere ; and that it was thought 
better to act, than to stand still and be shot down without an effort. 

7. Had he been killed in the attempt, and had the battle been lost, 
he would, no doubt, have been as much blamed by the world as he 
has been commended. Honors are not always apportioned to true 
desert. The fortunate are very apt to be regarded as the truly 
brave, and the unfortunate, whatever may be their real merit, are 
often overlooked or forgotten. 



CHAPTEK CLXIX. 

Madison's Administration, Continued. — Battle at the 
Moraman Towns. 

1. Though the Americans had now the command of Lake Erie, and 
the whole British coast below, as far down as Fort George, yet Gen- 
eral Proctor was In possession of most of the forts and places above, 
which had been relinquished by Hull. But he was at length growing 
fearful of his opponents, and, as the result seems to have shown, not 
without good reason. 

2. Governor Shelby, of Kentucky, with four thousand militia, hav- 
ing joined the army under General Harrison, it was thought best to 
make an attack on Detroit and the other posts in that neighborhood. 
With this view, the troops, on the 27th of September, went on board 
the American fleet, and the same day were landed at Maiden. 

4. Result of the battle? Number of killed and wounded? 5. What account did Com- 
modore Perry give of the engagement? 6. For what has he been censured? 7. What 
can you say of honors ? 

Chap. ciLXIX.— 1. What positions were by held the Americans and British? 2. Who 
had joined the army under Harrison? What attack was meditated? 
29* 



342 



HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES 



8. This place was on tlie British side, opposite Detroit, but rather 

below. Here they expected to 
find troops and store-houses. 
To their surprise, however, the 
British had burned the fort 
and all their stores, and made 
good their retreat into tlie in- 
terioi', before their arrival, 

4, The next day, the army 
crossed the river, and, on the 
29th, took possession of De- 
troit without opposition. On 
the 2d of October, Harrison 
and Shelby, with three thou- 
sand five hundred picked men, 
recrossed the river and pur- 
sued General Proctor. They 
found him encamped at the 
Moravian Towns, as they were 
called, on the river Thames, 
eighty-six miles north-east- 
ward of Detroit. 

5. Here, on the 5th of Oc- 
tober, was fought a most 
severe battle. But the Brit- 
ish force, though large, was not equal to ours, and the Indians did not 
persevere. Their chief, the celebrated Te-cum'-seh, having fallen, they 
fled. They were soon followed by General Proctor and about two 
hundred men ; and the rest of the army, with all their cannon, fell into 
the hands of the Americans. 

6. The British army lost, in killed, wounded and prisoners, about 
seven hundred men. About one hundred and twenty Indians were 
slain. The American loss, in killed and wounded, was fifty. Our 
army took six brass cannon which Hull had surrendered, on two of 
which were inscribed the following words : " Surrendered by Burgoyne, 
at Saratoga," 

7. Tecumseh, the chief who fell, was of the Shawanese tribe, and 
was a remarkable man. In early life, it is said, he was not distin^ 
guished as a warrior, but was rather cowardly. At the age of twenty- 




TECUMSEH. 



3. What had the British done ? 4. What was accomplished by the Americans without 
opposition? Where had General Proctor encamped ? 5. Describe the battle of the 5th 
of October. What celebrated Indian chiet was killed ? 6. What was the loss on both 
sides? Describe the six cannon? 7. What was the character of Tecumseh? 



THE WAR IN CANADA. 343 

five he had not only retrieved his character, but had become the boldest 
of his tribe, 

8. He was brother to the Shawanese chief called the Prophet, whose 
men General Harrison defeated in the battle of Tippecanoe ; but, at 
the time of that conflict, he was absent. When the war of 1812 com- 
menced, he was made a brigadier-general in the British army, and he 
continued to fight for his royal masters till his death. 

9. Tecumseh was distinguished, through life, for truth and tem- 
perance, as well as for his disregard of all external marks of oflace 
or rank. When he was made a general, a sash was given him, but he 
returned it with every manifestation of contempt; He was truly a 
savage ; he neither gave nor accepted quarter in war ; though else- 
where he was generous, disinterested, hospitable and humane. 

10. He was greatly distinguished for his eloquence. His speeches, 
it is said, might bear a comparison with those of the most celebrated 
orators of Greece and Kome, though this was doubtless an exaggera- 
tion. He was about five feet and ten inches in height, and beautifully 
formed. Tecumseh was, in truth, a man of remarkable endowments, 
and, with the advantages of civilization, might have attained an en- 
viable fame. 



CHAPTEK CLXX. 

Madison's Administration, Continued. — Progress of the 

War in Canada. 

1. The war being ended in the north-west. General Harrison left 
General Oass at Detroit, with one thousand men, and repaired to 
Buffalo, to join General Wilkinson, who had, just before this time, suc- 
ceeded in the chief command to General Dearborn. The great object 
of the army now was to take Kingston and Montreal. 

2. The army consisted of five thousand troops at Fort George, two 
thousand at Sackett's Harbor, and four thousand at Lake Champlain ; 
making, in all, eleven thousand men : in addition to which, a consid- 
erable body was every day expected to arrive under General Harrison. 
Beside all this, the fleet, under Commodore Chauncey, held itself in 
readiness to co-operate with the army. 

3. The secretary of war. General Armstrong, arrived at Sackett's 

8. What office did he hold in the British army? 9. How was Tecumseh distinguished? 
"What of him in war? In peace ? 10. What of his eloquence ? His speeches? Personal 
appearance ? 

Chap. CLXX. — 1. What did General Hanison do ? What was now the great object 
of the American commanders? 2. Of what did the army consist ? 3 What of General 
Armstrong ? What was now done by the army ? 



844 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

Harbor, early in September. The plan of attacking Kingston was 
given up, and the army was ordered to proceed at once to Montreal, 
cliiefly by marching a distance of one hundred and eighty miles. They 
left Sackett's Harbor September 30th. 

4. They were delayed as they passed along, in various ways, espe- 
cially by the attacks of small parties of the British on the Canada 
shore ; and at Williamsburg a severe contest ensued. General Boyd 
commanded in this battle, General Wilkinson being indisposed. Both 
parties may be said to have been beaten, for both retreated with great 
loss. 

5. Difficulties arose about this time among the American officers, 
especially between General Wilkinson and General Hampton. The 
troops of General Harrison, moreover, from some cause or other, did 
not arrive. A council of war was held, at the request of General 
Wilkinson, at which it was decided to give up the expedition for that 
season, and go into winter-quarters. 

6. The place selected for this purpose was called French Mills, more 
than a hundred miles from Sackett's Harbor, and fifty or sixty from 
Plattsburg. Here they remained till February, when, two thou- 
sand of them having been detached and sent to the Niagara frontier, 
the remainder, after having destroyed their barracks, proceeded to 
Plattsburg. 



CHAPTER CLXXI. 

Madison's Administration, Continued. — War with the 
Creek Indians. 

1. SoAEOELY had the northern army gone into winter-quarters at 
French Mills, when the public mind became directed to a war which 
had broken out with the Creek Indians. The Creeks appear to have 
led the way in this strife, by their seizure of Fort Mimms, and the 
massacre of three hundred men and women, who had fled to it for 
safety. This sad event occurred August 30th. 

2. News of this murder having been received, two thousand men 
from Tennessee, under the command of Major-General Jackson, and 
five hundred under General Coffee, were ordered out againt them. 
The Creeks were defeated at Tal-lus-hatch'-es, Tal-la-de'-ga, Au-tos'-se, 



4. How were they delayed? What was the result of the battle at Williamsburg? 
5. What was determined upon ? 6. Where were their winter-quarters ? What division 
was made of the troops ? 

Chap. CLXXI.— 1. What outrages had the Creek Indians committed? What troops 
went against thera ? 2. Where were the Indians defeated ? 



WAR WITH THE CREEKS 345 

E-muc-fau', and several other places, though not without severe loss 
on the part of the Americans. 

3. Still they were by no means subdued. They erected a breast- 
work at a place called the Horse-Shoe Bend, on the Tal-la-poo'-sa 
River, and posted a hundred men there. Here they held out for some 
time. At last it was determined to dislodge them. The scattered 
forces of the country, with General Jackson at their head, were at 
length before their fort. 

4. The attack was made on tlie 27th of March, 1814. General Jack- 
son assailed the fort, while General Coffee attacked a village near by, 
to drive the inhabitants to the fortifications. As soon as they were all 
fairly within them. General Jackson led his forces on, with fixed 
bayonets, to the breastwork, where they fought the Indians for some 
time through the portholes. 

5. At length, however, the soldiers scaled the breastwork, and 
pursued the work of death within the fort. The contest here became 
terrible. The Indians who survived escaped, but not till the ground 
was covered with dead bodies. Three hundred women and children 
were taken prisoners. The number who perished did not fall much 
short of six hundred. 

6. Thus terminated the struggle. A treaty was made with the Creeks 
by General Jackson on the 9th of August, by which they agreed to 
give up a portion of their territory to the whites, to pay the expenses 
of the war, to allow roads to be cut through their lands, to permit the 
free navigation of their rivers, and to take no more bribes of the 
British. 

7. The following is the speech of Weatherford, their leader, at the 
treaty : " I am in your power. Do with me what you please. I have 
done the white people all the harm I could. I have fought them, and 
fought them bravely. There was a time when I had a choice ; I have 
none now ; even hope is ended. Once I could animate my warriors ; 
but I cannot animate the dead. They can no longer hear my voice ; 
their bones are ut Tallushatches, Talladega, Emucfau, and To-ho- 
pe'-ka." 

3. Where did they intrench themselves? 4. Describe the attack by General Jackson. 
5. Describe the contest within the fort, fi What treaty was made with the Indians? 
7. Repeat the speech of Weatherford, the leader of the Creeks. 



346 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

CHAPTER CLXXII. 

Madison's Administration, Continued. — Russian Medv- 
ation offered. — Measures for prosecuting the War, 

1. The oifer of the Emperor of Russia to mediate between the 
United States and Great Britain, had not been accepted by the latter, 
but it was proposed to negotiate without any foreign interference. 
This proposal was at once approved by the government of the United 
States, and commissioners were appointed, on both sides, to meet at. 
Got'-ten-burg. The place of meeting, however, was afterward changed 
to Ghent, in Flanders, a part of Belgium. 

2. They did not assemble till August, and, in the mean time, the 
war, which has been mentioned, with the Creeks, had been prosecuted, 
and many more battles fought by land and by sea. Congress had also 
held two sessions — the regular session of the winter and an extra ses- 
sion, which commenced in May, 1814, and continued to August. 

3. At these meetings of Congress, provision had been made for 
raising men and money, and especially for strengthening the navy, 
protecting our commerce, and regulating the revenue. The treasury 
was rather empty, and an expensive war could not be conducted, on a 
frontier thousands of miJes in extent, and on the ocean too, without 
a large amount of money. 

4. Among the measures which had been adopted in the winter of 
1813-14, was the laying of an embargo. This, however, was repealed 
the next April. The extra session of 1814 was chiefly spent in devis- 
ing means for replenishing the treasury ; for, though the offer of a 
bounty of one hundred and twenty-four dollars to every soldier who 
would enlist for five years, or during the war, had procured men, yet 
these men must be paid. 

5. A system of internal or domestic taxation was at length resolved 
on, and laws were passed laying taxes on lands, houses, carriages, dis- 
tilled liquors, refined sugars, retailers' licenses, etc. In addition to the 
five millions and a half of dollars which it was expected w^ould be 
raised in this way, it was decided to borrow seven millions and a iialf 
more. 

6. One additional measure was adopted, which met with some op- 
position on account of the expense. This was the construction of one 

Chap. CLXXII.— 1. What proposal was made by the Emperor of Enssia? What did 
Great Britain propose? Whivt of the commissioners? 2. When did they assemble? 
What of Congress ? 3. What provision had been made by Congress ? What was the 
state of the treasury? 4. How was the entire session of Congress in IRtt spent? 5. 
What taxes were laid ? What money was to be borrowed ? 6 For what projoct wns half 
& million of dollars raised ? 



THE WAR ON THE OCEAN. 347 

or more steam batteries, to be employed in the defence of our ])orts, 
rather than in carrying on the war at sea. For this object, half a mil- 
lion of dollars was appropriated. 

7. It should not be forgotten that the party, in the United States, 
who had always been opposed to the war, continued their opposition. 
They even charged the government party with being influenced by au 
undue attachment to the French ; in proof of which they cited the 
fact that war was declared just at the time when the forces of Britain 
were most needed in Europe to repel the ambitious projects of 
Napoleon. 



CHAPTER CLXXIL 

Madison's Administration, Continued. — Tin: War on 
the Ocean. 

1. The spring of 1814 opened with the loss of the United States 
frigate Essex, of thirty -two guns. Commodore Porter, in the bay of 
Val-pa-rai'-so, in Chil'-i. The Essex had been cruising in the Pacific 
Ocean a long time, and had taken many prizes, and, though she had 
run into a neutral port, the British were determined not to spare her. 

2. She was attacked on the 28th of March by a force greatly superior 
to her own, consisting of the British frigate Phoebe, of thirty-six guns, 
and a sloop of war called the Cherub, of eighteen guns. The con- 
test was long and severe, and the loss of the Essex was very great, 
amounting to above one hundred and fifty in killed and wounded. 
Both vessels were much injured; the Phoebe could hardly be kept 
from sinking immediately. 

3. On the 29th of April, the United States sloop of war Peacock, 
commanded by Captain, afterward Commodore, Warrington, while off 
the coast of Florida, fell in with and captured the British brig Epervier, 
of eighteen guns. The battle lasted forty -five minutes. The British 
had eighteen killed and thirteen wounded ; the Americans had only 
two wounded. 

4. The United States sloop Wasp, also of eighteen guns, took the 
British sloop of war Reindeer, of eighteen guns. The loss was con- 
siderable on both sides. The action lasted twenty-eight minutes. It 
was fought near the coast of Great Britain, and the Reindeer was de- 
stroyed to prevent a recapture. 

7, What of the party opposed to the war ? 

Chap. CLXXIII. — 1. What ship was lost by the Americans in 1814? 2 Describe the 
capture of the Essex 3 What passed between the Peacock and the Epervier? 4 What 
naval action was there on the coast of Great Britain? 



348 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

5. But the Wasp had not yet completed her work. Besides making 
a number of prizes on the coast of Great Britain and France, she fell 
in with the British sloop Avon, on the 1st of September, and, after a 
running fight of several hours, captured her. She was ordered to 
America, but was lost on her passage. 

6. Important additions having been made, early this year, to the fleet 
on Lake Ontario, Commodore Chauncey was able to render very effi- 
cient aid to the army on the frontier, in its operations, and to watch 
the movements of the British forces, both on the land and on the lake. 
There was, however, no considerable action between the two fleets. 

Y. A British fleet had for some time past held the port of New 
London, in Connecticut, in a state of blockade, having, early in June, 
chased three of our ships of war, the United States, the Macedonian, 
and the Hornet, up the river. On the 11th of August, some of the 
British vessels, under Commodore Hardy, proceeded to bombard Ston- 
ington, but were gallantly repulsed with considerable loss. 



CHAPTEK CLXXIY. 

Madison's Administration, Continued. — Defeat of Gen- 
eral Wilkinson. — His Trial hy Court- Martial. 

1. Eakly in the spring of 1814, a detachment of two thousand 
British soldiers had been ordered to post themselves near the river 
Sorel, to prevent General Wilkinson, who was still at Plattsburg, from 
advancing on Canada. The spot which they fortified was within the 
British lines. 

2. When General Wilkinson heard of this movement, he marched, 
at the head of four thousand men, and on the 31st of March, attacked 
their works. Finding their fortifications much stronger than he ex- 
pected, he at length retreated ; but not till he had lost, in killed and 
wounded, about one hundred and forty men. 

3. General Wilkinson was tried, some time afterward, for his con- 
duct on this and other occasions, by a court-martial, which convened 
at Troy, in the state of New York. He was at length acquitted, though 
not until facts had been developed, in regard to his character, which 
are not easily or readily forgotten. 

4. One conspicuous fault in his character appears to have existed ; 

5. What prize was taken by the Wasp ? 6. What was done by Commodore Chauncey ? 
7. What had the British done? What of Commodore Hardy and the attack on Ston- 
i-ngton ? 

Chap. CLXXIV.— 1. Where was a British detachment posted early in 1814? 2. What 
did General Wilkinson do ? 3. For what was he tried ? 



BATTLE OF CHIPPEWA, 349 

a fault of which many a brave man has, unhappily, been found guilty. 
In one action at the north, when he was unable to command, and 
pleaded illness as an excuse, it turned out that he was at a house in 
tlie neighborhood, in a state of intoxication ! 

5. During the months of April, May and June, there was little 
fighting either on the sea-coast or the Canadian frontier. One reason 
for this was doubtless that Great Britain was at this time deeply en- 
gaged in the European war, contending against the armies of Napo- 
leon. But no sooner had the latter been overthrown by the Allied 
Powers, than the British were at liberty to pour their thousands upon 
America. No less than fourteen thousand of the troops which had 
fought under Wellington were speedily let loose upon our northern 
frontier, through Canada. 



CHAPTER CLXXY. 

Madison's Administration, Continued. — The War at the 
North- West. — Battles of Chippewa and Bridgewater. — 
Siege of Fort Erie. 

1. About the 1st of July, General Brown crossed the Niagara River 
near Buffalo, and took possession of Fort Erie without opposition. 
Meanwhile, a large number of the British forces had advanced as far 
up the river as Chip'-pe-wa, a few miles lower down than Fort Erie, 
where they were strongly intrenched, under General Riall. 

2. The troops of General Brown were among the best in the Ameri- 
can army, and amounted to about three thousand five hundred. The 
British army was nearly equal in point of numbers, and was equally 
well selected. On the 4th of July, General Brown advanced to Chip- 
pewa, and on the 5th the two armies met in the open field. 

3. This battle was exceedingly obstinate and bloody. The Ameri- 
cans were, it is true, the victors, but they paid dearly for the victory. 
They lost more than three hundred men. The loss of the British ex- 
ceeded five hundred. They were, moreover, obliged to quit the field, 
and retreat down the river to Burlington Heights, 

4. Here they were reinforced by General Drummond, who took the 
command, and led the army back toward the American camp. On 

4. What great fault had he ? 5. How was Great Britain occupied 1 What happened 
upon Napoleon's fall ? 

Chap. CLXXV.~1. Where did General Brown go about the 1st of July? Where had 
the British intrenched themselves ? 2. What of the troops of General Brown ? What 
of the British army? General Brown? 3, Describe the battle of Chippewa? 



350 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES, 




the 25th July, they met at Bridgewater, nearly opposite the falls of 
the Niagara, and within the sound of the cataract — and one of the 
most obstinate battles took place which was ever fought in America. 

5. The contest lasted from four o'clock in the afternoon, until mid- 
night, when the British retreated. As soon as they had departed, the 
Americans retired to their encampment, but not being able to remove 
the artillery they had taken from the enemy, the latter returned and 
seized it, and claimed the victory. 

6. Neither side, however, had much reason to be proud of the re- 
sults of the day. The Americans, with only three or four thousand 
men, had lost, in killed and wounded, eight hundred and sixty, and 
the British, with about five thousand men, eight hundred and seventy- 
eight. 

7. This engagement is often called the Battle of Lundifs Lane^ from 
the name of a narrow road in which it was fought. General Scott led 
the advance, and displayed in a remarkable manner, the military 

4. What of the battle of Bridgewater ? 5. Who won the battle ? Which party claimed 
the victory? 6. What was the loss on each side? 7. What is the battle of Bridirewater 
often called? What of General Scott; General Jessup? The principal generals on both 
Bides ? General Riall ? / 



SIEGE OF FORT ERIE. 351 

qualities of skill and courage for which he is now so distinguished. 
Major Jessup, now General Jessup, also acquired distinction. The 
fierceness of the fight may be inferred, not only from the number of 
men killed and wounded, but from the fact that the principal generals 
on both sides were wounded. The British General Riall was taken 
j)risoner. 

8. The American forces were now greatly reduced, and, as there 
was no prospect of an immediate reinforcement, tliey retreated up the 
river to Fort Erie, where they made a stand. General Drummond 
followed them, and, on the 4th of August, commenced a siege. The 
fort was, at first, commanded by General Ripley, but subsequently by 
General Gaines. 

9. The siege continued to be prosecuted with great vigor. On the 
15th of August a large British force advanced against the fort, in three 
columns. They were, however, repulsed, with the loss of fifty-seven 
killed, three hundred and nineteen wounded, and five hundred and 
thirty-nine missing. All this while, the American forces did not 
exceed fifteen hundred efiicient men. 

10. At length, General Izard arrived from Plattsburg with a rein- 
forcement of five thousand men. Just before his arrival. General Brown, 
who had recovered of his wounds and taken the command of the troops, 
ordered a body of liis men to sally forth and attack the invaders. In 
this, the Americans were successful, destroying the advanced works 
of the enemy, and driving their forces back toward Chippewa. 

11. The siege of the fort lasted forty-nine days, when the Britisli 
retreated, and the Americans pursued them. A second battle was 
fought near Chippewa, on the 20th of October, in which the Ameri- 
cans were victorious, though the triumph was dearly bought. 



CHAPTER CLXXYI. 

Madison's Administration, Continued. — City of Wash- 
ington capttored and hurned. 

1. When the war against Great Britain was declared, that power, 
as we have already intimated, was occupied in the tremendous strug- 
gle with Napoleon. Under these circumstances our statesmen had 
supposed it would be easy to conquer the contiguous British provinces 

8. Where did the American forces now go ? Who commenced the. siege of Fort Erie ? 
Who commanded the fort ? 9. Describe the attack. 10. What of General Izard ? What 
was done by General Brown? 11. How long was the siege? What did the British do? 
What of the second battle near Chippewa? 

Chap. CLXXVI. — 1. Why was it supposed our armies could easily conquer Canada? 



352 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

of Canada, As we have seen, the main efforts of our armies had been 
directed, though without success, to this object. 

2. But now Napoleon was overthrown* and the British armies and 
navies being released from the European war, were sent to this country. 
Instead, therefore, of conquering the enemy's territories, we were called 
to the defence of our own. In the spring and summer of 1814, no less 
than forty thousand men, soldiers and sailors, were sent against us. 

3. One portion of these troops was despatched to the Chesapeake Bay. 
They arrived in a squadron of fifty or sixty sail, and, having entered 
the bay, proceeded slowly up the Potomac Eiver. At a considerable 
distance below Washington, five thousand men, under General Eoss, 
were put on shore, who marched, as rapidly as circumstances permit- 
ted, toward the capital ; a part of the fieet following them. 

4. They met with little resistance till they came to Bladensburg, 
six miles from Washington. Kere General Winder had collected 
together a body of militia, and Commodore Barney, of the navy, had 
the command of a few cannon and about four hundred men. The 
latter behaved with great courage, but being deserted by the militia, 
who fled at the first approach of the foe, they were soon obliged to 
surrender. 

5. TJie British proceeded to the capital. They reached it on the 
23d of August, in the evening. The main body of the army, meet- 
ing with little resistance, halted a mile and a half out of the city. 
General Eoss, with only seven hundred men, entered the place and 
burned the capitol, the president's house, the public ofiices, the arsenal, 
and the navy-yard. 

6. In burning the capitol, they destroyed its valuable library and 
furniture. Private property was respected but little more than pub- 
lic. One hotel, with several private buildings, was destroyed. The 
bridge west of the city, across the Potomac, was also burned. 

7. The British boasted much of their success in taking the seat of 
government of the United States, and some of them seemed to think 
the whole country would be soon ready to submit to the British yoke. 
However, it was discovered that to conquer a single city, is not to 
enslave a whole country. 

2. What of Napoleon ? What was the condition of our country at this time? 3. What 
of one portion of tlie British troops ? 4. Who were collected together at Bladengburg? 
What of the American militia? The men from the navy? 5. What did the British 
then do? What of General Eoss? 6. What was destroyed by the British ? 7. What 
was thought by the British ? 

* The leading powers of Europe, which had combined for the overthrow of Napoleon, 
entered Paris in March, 1814. Napoleon abdicated and was sent to Elba. Thus the British 
forces were set at liberty. Napoleon returned to Paris, but was finally defeated at Water, 
loo, September 18, 1815. 



BATTLE NEAR BALTIMORE. 363 

8. After the capture and destruction of Washington, the British 
re-embarked on board their fleet and returned down the river. On 
their way, however, they halted at Alexandria long enough to demand 
and receive the surrender of the city. This took place August 29th. 

9. This expedition on the part of the British afforded a brilliant tri- 
umph to them, and caused great humiliation to the Americans. It, 
however, was in two ways disastrous to the victors ; their conduct in 
several respects was a shameful outrage on the customs of civilization, 
even in warfare, and left a permanent bitterness of feeling in the hearts 
of the Americans toward Great Britain ; it also roused the people of 
this country to greater activity in the struggle that was then impending. 



CHAPTER CLXXYIL 

Madison's Administration, Continued. — Battle near Bal- 
timore. 

1. The British sailed as rapidly as possible from Washington to 
Baltimore. They reached the mouth of the Patapsco, fourteen miles 
below the city, on the 11th of September. The next day six thousand 
men were landed from the fleet, at North Point, and, under the com- 
mand of General Ross, they proceeded toward the city. 

2. But they found more opposition here than in the neighborhood 
of Washington. An army of three thousand two hundred men had 
been collected and placed under the command of General Strieker, to 
annoy the British and keep them in check as much as possible, in 
order, at least, to give more time for putting the forts and batteries 
about the city in a proper condition for defence. A severe battle was 
fought, and the Americans were obliged to retire with considerable 
loss. The killed and wounded amounted to one hundred and three, 
among whom were many of the first inhabitants of Baltimore. 

3. N'ext morning, the British advanced to the intrenchments, about 
two miles from the city. At the same time, a vigorous attack had been 
made on Fort McHenry from the fleet. Gr,eat numbers of bombs were 
thrown toward the fort for a whole day and night, but they produced 
very little effect. All this while preparation was making in the city 
to give the enemy a warm reception if they should determine on an 
attack. 

8. What more was done by the British? 9 What was the effect of the British capture 
and burning of Washington ? 

Chap. CLXXVII.— 1. To what place did the British now proceed ? 2. Who did they 
' And there to oppose them ? What of the battle ? 8. What fort was attacked ? 
30* 



354 



HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES, 



4, After remaining before the city, however, at a somewhat respect- 
ful distance, till the evening of the 13th, the British retired to their 
shipping, and abandoned the enterprise. They had lost, in the battle 
of the 12th, their commander. General Ross, which doubtless had its 
effect in discouraging them from carrying out their plan. 

5. During these events, the enemy ravaged the coasts of the Ches- 
apeake, in a manner which reflected little credit on the British charac- 
ter, and'only served to exasperate the Americans, and to unite them 
in the attempt to repel a foe that paid so little regard either to the law 
of nations or to that of honor. 



CHAPTEK CLXXYIII. 

Madisoi^'s Administration, Continued. — The War on 
Lake ChaT/iplain and in the vicinity. 

1. The army of the United States at the north, had been greatly 

reduced during the spring and 
summer of 1814 ; large portions 
having been ordered to other 
stations. On the 1st of Sep- 
tember the whole effective force 
at Plattsburg, the head-quarters 
of the army, did not exceed 
fifteen hundred men. 

2. About this time, intelli- 
gence was received that the 
British, under General Prevost, 
the governor-general of Canada, 
with a force of fourteen thou- 
sand men, were on their way to 
Plattsburg. These forces, for 
the most part, were of a char- 
acter calculated to intimidate, 
for they were from well-fought 
fields of battle, the conquerors of the conquerors of Europe. 

3. But, though the land forces of this division of our army were in- 
considerable, the naval force had been raised, during the war, so as to 




COMMODORE MoDONOUGH. 



4. "What did the British do on the 13th ? 5. What served to exasperate the Americans? 
What had the enemy done, about this time, along the coasts of the Chesapeake? 

Chap. CLXXVIli— 1. What of tlie army of the United States in 1814? 2. What new? 
was now received ** What of the British troops now approaching Plattsburg? 



THE WAR ON LAKE CHAM PL A IN. 355 

be at this time quite respectable. It consisted of a brig, a sliip, a 
schooner, and a sloop, and ten gunboats, mounting, in all, about ninety 
guns, and manned, by eight hundred and fifty men ; the whole under 
the direction of Commodore Thomas McDonough. 

4, The British, too, had a navy on the lake, equal, if not somewhat 
superior to that of the United States, Of men, it contained at least 
two hundred more. One of the vessels was, moreover, equal in force 
to an ordinary frigate of thirty-two or thirty-six guns, 

5, General Prevost and his army arrived in the neighborhood of 
Plattsburg about the time expected, and General Macomb, the com- 
mander at that place, had ordered out a body of militia, and made 
every preparation which the nature of the case and the time admitted. 
The fleet was lying near, ready to aid him if necessary. 

6, "While the two armies were thus before each other, the British 
fleet appeared in sight, and gave battle to the American. The contest 
was a fearful one, and lasted two hours and twenty mmutes ; termina- 
ting In the surrender of the British fleet to Commodore McDonough. 
A few of the smaller vessels only escaped. 

T. While the battle was going on by water, the British general be- 
gan his attack on Plattsburg — pouring ui)on it a shower of bomb- 
shells, balls, and rockets. The Americans answered them by a destruc- 
tive fire from the fort. Before sunset, the attack ceased, and the 
British retreated, with the loss, in killed, wounded, and missing, of 
about twenty-five hundred men. 

8. This was a most signally fortunate day to the Americans. The 
British were, in fact, so completely defeated that they did not attempt 
to renew the war in that quarter. They hastened down the shore of 
the lake as fast as they could, not even taking with them their wounded 
or their military stores. 

9. The loss in the engagement on the lake was great on both sides, 
but greatest, by far, on the side of the British. They had eighty-four 
killed and one hundred and ten wounded ; the Americans had only 
fifty-two killed and fifty-four wounded. So, at least, it- was reported. 
And yet it is stated by Cooper in his Naval History, that nearly every 
soldier on board of the Saratoga, Commodore McDonough's vessel, 
was more or less injured. 

10. Commodore McDonough was twice supposed to be killed during 
the action. In the first instance, a broken boom was thrown against 



3. What was the extent of the United States navy on Lake Champlain? Who was 
the commander? 4. "What of the British navy on tlie lake? 5. What preparation was 
now made for battle ? 6. Describe the action between the two fleets. Which was victo- 
rious? 7. What attack was made by land? 8. What was the effect of this battle &a the 
British? 9. What was the less, on both sides, in the naval engagement? 



35G HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

liiin with such violence as to leave him, for a few moments, senseless. 
A little while afterward, he was knocked down, and besmeared with 
blood, by the head of one of the seamen, which had been shot off and 
thrown against him. 

11. However, he survived, and was not even reckoned among the 
wounded. It seems to have been agreed, beforehand, to call no per- 
son wounded as long as he could keep out of the sick room. One 
man, like the commodore, was knocked down bj the head of a seaman, 
and yet returned to his post and said nothing, though he did not im- 
mediately recover from the shock. 

12. One venerable old sailor had his clothes actually stripped off by 
a splinter, without breaking or, so far as could be perceived, so much 
as injuring the skin. He tied his pocket handkerchief around him and 
went to work again, and continued at his post till the contest was over; 
though he died a few months afterward, as it was thought, of some 
internal injury. 

13. Another anecdote of the battle of Lake Champlain is commonly 
reported, and is doubtless true. Some hens, confined on board Com- 
modore McDonough's vessel at the commencement of the battle, got 
loose during the tumult, upon which a cock, which was among them, 
flew to an elevated part of the vessel, and crowed vigorously. Not a 
few of the seamen regarded this as foretelling victory, and were en- 
couraged by it to fight on, despite the danger. 



CHAPTER CLXXIX. 

Madison's Administration, Continued.' — Conventio7i at 
Hartford. 

1. The refusal of three of the New England states to order out their 
militia, to be subject to other officers than their own, at the opening 
of the war, has been mentioned. Demands were subsequently made 
by the governors of the several states respectively, on the militia, to 
repel the attacks of the enemy, especially at Say brook, New London, 
Stonington, Castine, etc., and these were readily complied with. 

2. But the opposition to thia war in the New England states had 
b-^en increasing rather than diminishing. In October, 1814, it was 



10. How did Commodore McDonougli narrowly escape death ? 11. What, was agreed 
upon before the battle ? Wliut of a seaman knocked down ? 12. What can you say of an 
old sailor? 13. Eelate the anecdote of the cock. 

Chap. CLXXIX.— 1. AV'hut had been deuuinded by the governors ot some of the 
states ? What was the result of these demands ? 



CONVENTION AT HARTFORD. 35T 

})ropose(l by the Massachusetts legislature to call a convention of dele- 
gates, from the several states of New England, to meet at some con- 
venient place, and inquire what ought to be done. 

3. This convention met at Hartford, December 15th. It consisted 
of twenty-four delegates from Massachusetts, Connecticut, and Rhode 
Island, and a partial delegation from Vermont and New Hampshire. 
As a state, Vermont had refused to have any concern in the measure. 

4. These delegates, consisting, for the most part, of aged men, of the 
highest consideration in the states to which they belonged, proceeded 
to canvass, with much freedom, the motives and measures which had 
led to the war, and to set forth the evils which the country was suffer- 
ing in consequence of its continuance. They remained in session about 
three weeks. 

5. This convention was denounced by the friends of the administra- 
tion in the severest terms. It was said to be not only impolitic, as 
giving encouragement to the enemy, but absolutely traitorous to the 
general government. It was branded, in every possible way, with 
odium ; and the Hartford Convention is, to this day, with many, but 
a title of contempt or reprobation. There are others, however, who 
maintain that it was a patriotic and useful measure. This latter opin- 
ion, as the mists of passion fade away, appears to become more and 
more prevalent. 

6. It is certain that, whatever may have been its general tendency, 
the convention broke up without adopting any treasonable resolutions, 
or attempting any dangerous movements. A few amendments of the 
Constitution of the United States were proposed, such as, it was thought, 
would thereafter prevent a recurrence of the evils under which the 
country then groaned. 

7. These amendments of the Constitution were proposed, in the 
usual form and manner, to the states, but were rejected. Meanwhile, 
as we shall presently see, the war was brought to an end. Indeed, a 
treaty was actually signed at Ghent in December, 1814, before the 
convention at Hartford broke up, but the news had not reached this 
country. 

2. What was proposed by the Massaeliusetts legislature in 1814 ? 3 Of what did the 
Hartford Convention consist ? 4 What was the character of the delegates? What did 
they proceed to do? 5. How M^as this convention considered? 6. "What was jn-oposed 
by the convention? 7. Were these amendments accepted? What treaty was signed 
in December, 1814? 



358 HL^TORY OF THE n v i T E P STVTES, 




BATTLE OP NKW OKLKANS. 



CHAPTER CLXXX. 



Madison's Administration, Continued. — Battle of New 

Orleans. 

1. Several battles were fought by the two contending nations of 
Great Britain and America, after a treaty of peace was actually signed, 
Init before the news had reached this country. The most important of 
these was at New Orleans, and occurred on the 8th of January, 1815. 

2. A large British fleet had arrived on the coast, east of the Missis- 
sippi River, as early as December. This fleet had on board fifteen 
tliousand troops, under the command of Sir Edward Packenham. Geu- 



. Chap. CLXXX —1. When did the battle of New Orleans take place ? 2. What of the 
British tleet? What was tiie number of the British t)-oops? Who commanded them ? 
Who commanded the United States troops ? 



BATTLE OF NEW ORLEANS. 359 

eral Jackson, who had so distinguished liiraself in the war with the 
Creek Indians, now had the command of the troops of tlie United 
States in this quarter. 

8. As there was good reason to believe that the enemy were medi- 
tating a blow at New Orleans, General Jackson proceeded to fortify 
the place as fast and as strongly as the time and the circumstances 
would permit. Batteries, consisting mostly of bales of cotton, were 
extended from the river, eastward, in such a manner as to form a 
strong line of defence, fronted by a deep ditch. 

4. The enemy came to the attack in solid columns, to the number 
of twelve thousand ; they were well-tried and thoroughly disciplined 
troops. The forces under General Jackson scarcely amounted to half 
their number, and were chiefly militia. A part of them, only, had 
seen fighting before. Yet nearly all were accustomed ^o the use of the 
rifle, and were the best marksmen in the country. 

5. No opposition was made to the British till they came fairly within 
reach of the American batteries, when some twenty-five or thirty 
cannon at once began the work of death. The British, however, con- 
tinued to advance till they came within reach of the muskets and rifles, 
when their destruction became so great that their progress was slow. 

6. From the nature of the ground, the British seemed obliged to ad- 
vance in solid columns ; but this made their destruction only so much 
the more dreadful. The cannon of the Americans were mowing down 
whole rows of them at every discharge. Unable to stand the shock, 
they at last began to fly. 

7. But the officers rallied them again, and led them on as far as the 
very intrenchments of the Americans, where they found a ditch with 
five feet of water and a steep and slippery bank beyond it. At the 
moment of this desperate approach, the two principal British generals, 
Packenham and Gibbs, were killed, and their third, General Kean, was 
wounded. . 

8. Finding it impossible to scale the batteries of the Americans, 
and unable to stand the shower of death which was poured upon 
them, they retreated down the river. They did not embark immedi- 
ately on board their shipping, but they made no more attempts against 
New Orleans. 

9. The results of this battle were as singular as they were dreadful. 
No less than seven hundred men, out of the five thousand who were 
near enough to the batteries to be actually engaged, slept the sleep of 



8. What was done by General Jackson ? What were the American batteries composed 
of? 4. What forces were opposed to each t)ther? 5. Describe tjie attack. 0. How were 
the British cut down ? 7, 8. Describe the attack after the rally. What British generals 
were killed ? 9. What was the loss of the British in this battle ? 



860 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

death, and fourteen hundred were wounded. Five hundred more were 
[)risoners. Yet {i"*! this destruction was effected with the loss on our 
part of only seven men killed and six wounded ! 



CHAPTER CLXXXI. 

Madison's Administration, Continued. — Closing Events 
of the War. — The Dartmoor Massacre. — The Peace of 
Ghent. 

1. Our little navy continued its operations, as well as the army on 
shore, ignorant, of course, of what had been done at Ghent. Many 
prizes were taken, and not a few severe battles fought after the com- 
mencement of the year 1815. Among the last mentioned were the 
following: 

2. The British ship Levant, of eighteen guns, and the frigate Cyane, 
of thirty-four, were taken by the American frigate Constitution, while 
on a cruise, in the Mediterranean Sea, about the 20th of February. 
The battle lasted, with some intermission, three hours and a half, but 
was not very destructive. 

3. Again, on the 23d of March, the Hornet, of the United States, 
commanded by Captain Biddle, fell in with and took the British brig 
Penguin, of eighteen guns. The battle lasted about twenty-two 
minutes, and was warmly contested — the forces of the two vessels 
being nearly equal. 

4. An event of an adverse nature occurred about the beginning 
of this year. The United States frigate President, commanded by 
Commodore Decatur, in attempting to put to sea from New York, was 
pursued by the Endymion, a frigate of forty guns, and a battle ensued, 
during which other vessels came to the aid of the Endymion, and the 
President was captured. 

5. But the war was now over. The treaty signed at Ghent between 
the commissioners* of the United States and Great Britain December 
14th, 1814, had been ratified by the United States on the iVth of Feb- 
ruary following. By certain provisions of the treaty, with regard to 
c:;i[)tures which should be made after it was ratified, the President was 

Chap. CLXXXI. — ^1. What was done by our navy after the commencement if the year 
isir)? 2. What sliips were taken by the Constitution? 8. Describe the engngement of 
Alarch 23d. 4. Describe the capture of the United States frigate President. 5. Wliat 
•jf the treaty signed at Ghent ? 

* These commissioners were : on tlio part of the United States, John Quincy Adarus, 
.lames A. Bayard, ITcnry Clay, Jonathan Kussell, and Albert Gallatin; on the p'lrt of 
Great Britain. Admiral Lord Gambior, Henry Goulborn, and William Adams. 



DIFFICULTIES WITH ALGIERS. 36] 

a lawful prize to the British as much as if she had been taken earlier; 
and the Cyane and Levant also belonged to the United States. 

6. The return of peace, in the United States, was hailed with great 
.]^y by both political parties. Much as people love war, they at leugth 
become tired of it ; even when it happens, as in the present instance, 
that they do not appear to have gained the ends for which they fight,* 
if the soldiers were not glad to exchange the sword for the plough- 
share, the nation at least were glad to have them do it. 

7. One sad incident connected with the w^ar, which was just now 
brought to a close, remains to be mentioned. It is the story of the 
massacre of American prisoners, which took place at Dartmoor, in 
Devonshire, England, April 6th, 1815. The war was, of course, over, 
and known to be over, at this time, but the prisoners had not all been 
exchanged. 

8. These prisoners at Dartmoor were fired upon by the guard of the 
prison, by order of the agent. Seven of them were killed and sixty 
more or less wounded. The British did not defend the act ; it was 
an act of cruelty that could not be justified. On the contrary, much 
sympathy was expressed, even by the monarch on the throne, for the 
widows and families of the sufferers. 

9. Peace was established in the manner we have mentioned, and it 
was this very year that the Massachusetts Peace Society was formed. 
This institution, by itself, its numerous auxiliaries and its periodicals, 
has done much, both in this country and in Europe, to sow the seeds 
of a far different spirit from that which has long prevailed even in the 
greater part of the Christian world. 



CHAPTEE CLXXXII. 

Madison's Administeation, Continued. — Difficulties 
with Algiers. 

1. The difiiculties between the United States and Algiers had pro- 
ceeded to such an extent, that, in 1812, the American consul was sud- 
denly ordered by the Dey to leave the capital. The immediate excuse 

6. How was the return of peace received ? 7, 8. Describe the fate of the prisoners at, 
Dartmoor. 9. When was the Massachusetts Peace Society formed? Its influence? 

* It is a curious fact, that upon the subjects for which the war had been professedly 
declared — the encroachments upon xVmerican commerce and the impressment of Ameri- 
can seamen, under the pretext of their being British subjects — the treaty thus concluded 
was silent! The termination of the European war, however, put an end to the former, 
and Great Britain has since virtually relinquished her pretensions to the latter. 
81 



362 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

for a command so imexpected and so singular was, thafc a cargo of 
naval and military stores which our government had sent them were 
not satisfactory. 

2. Whether the stores were really such as the Dey pretended, or 
whether he only sought a pretext for commencing anew his system 
of piracy, is uncertain. One thing is, indeed, well known, which is, 
that depredations were immediately commenced, and that our vessels 
were not only plundered, but several of them captured and condemned, 
and their crews sold into slavery. 

8. During the session of Congress which commenced in December, 
1814, the president, in a message, suggested the importance of taking 
measures to prevent further piracy on our vessels from this quarter. 
The subject was agitated in Congress, and at length, in March, 1815, 
they declared war against the Dey. 

4. Soon after this, an Ameri- 
can squadron, under the gallant 
Decatur, sailed for the Mediter- 
ranean, to make a descent upon 
the Algerines. On the 18th of 
June, they captured an Algerian 
frigate of forty -four guns and 
six hundred men, and a brig. 
The victorious squadron then 
sailed for Algiers, to humble the 
Dey, if possible, still further. 

5. Such was the terror in- 
spired by the American arms, 
that it was not difficult to pro- 
cure a treaty, on our own terms. 
The Dey not only agreed to give 
up the property and men he 

DECATUR. 1 T 1 r. T 

had taken from us, and exempt 
HS from tribute in time to come, but actually to pay six millions of 
dollars for previous damages. This treaty was signed June 30th of the 
same year. 

6. Decatur then sailed for Tunis, and afterward for Tripoli, and ob- 
tained indemnity of the rulers of both, for past wrongs and security 
against future ones. 




Chap. CLXXXII. — ^1. What reason was given by the Dey of Algiers for sending away 
the American consul? 2. What depredations were committed? 8. What was done by 
Congress? When was war declared against the Dey ? 4. What was done by an American 
squadron ? 5. What did the Dey agi-ee to do in the treaty? When was this treaty signed ? 
6. What did Decatur do as to Tunis and Tripoli ? 



SECOND UNITED STATES BANK. 363 

CHAPTER CLXXXm. 

Madison's Administkation, Continued. — The second Unit- 
ed States Bank chartered. — Indiana admitted into the 

Union. 

1. The two principal events belonging to the history of the United 
States, for the year 1816, were the establishment of the second Bank 
of the United States, and the admission of In-di-an'-a into the Union, 
as the nineteenth state. 

2. The bill for the incorporation of a bank passed April 10th. Its 
capital was thirty-five millions of dollars; of which seven millions 
were to be subscribed by the United States, and twenty-eight mil- 
lions by individuals. Its aifairs were to be managed by twenty-five 
directors, five of whom were to be appointed by the president and 
senate, and twenty elected by the stockholders. The charter was 
limited to twenty years. 

8. With regard to the early history of Indiana, little can be said, ex- 
cept that it had been, for a long time prior to its settlement, the resi- 
dence of various Indian tribes, and the theatre of Indian wars. It was 
here that the Shawanese resided, and that the bloody affair of Tip- 
pe-ca-noe' took place. 

4. How early the first white settlement was made, which was fairly 
within the limits of Indiana, cannot now be determined. It was a 
part of the great territory claimed by the French and traversed by 
their traders. It is quite certain that Vin-cennes', if not some other 
posts, was settled at least one hundred and sixty years ago. 

5. At the peace of 1763, Indiana, with the rest of the great ITorth- 
Western Territory, was given up by France to England. Still it was 
claimed by the Indians, but, by the various treaties made with them 
from time to time, extensive tracts were obtained for settlement. But 
the Indian title to many parts of the state was retained till the year 
1812, and even longer. 

6. It was erected into a territorial government in 1809. In Decem- 
ber, 1815, its inhabitants being found to amount to sixty thousand, a 
petition was sent to Congress to be made a separate state, which was 
granted, as we have already seen. The prosperity of Indiana has been 
almost unexampled; its population now exceeds a million of inhabit- 
ants. 



Ohap. CLXXXIII.— 1. What two events took place in the year 1816? 2. What were 
the conditions of the second United States Bank ? 3. What of the early history of In- 
tliaaa? 4. What of the settlements there-? 5. What of Indiana at the peace of 1768? In 
1322 ? 6. Relate its subsequent history ? Its population at the present time? 



364 



HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 




PRESIDENT JAMES MONROE. 



CHAPTEE CLXXXIV. | 

Monroe's Administeation, fkom Makch 4th, 181T, to i 

Majbch 4th, 1825. — His Character and History. — j 

Daniel D. Tomjpkins^ Yice- President. — Mississippi j 

admitted into the Union. 

1. The year 1817 is noted in the history of the United States, as 
the commencement of the administration of James Monroe, of Vir- 
ginia, and also for the admission of Mississippi to be the twentietli 
pillar of the American Union. 

2. Mr. Monroe was a very different man from Mr. Madison, his 
predecessor in office. The latter was a man of great learning, as well 
as of high talents as a statesman. He was a very active member of 
the Continental Congress, and it is to him we are indebted, more than 
any other man, for the adoption of the constitution under which we 
live. Yet Mr. Madison was no warrior. 



Chap. CLXXXIV.— 1. For what is the year 1817 distinguished ; 
character of Mr. Madison ? 



2. What was the 



MONROE ELECTED PRESIDENT. 365 

3. Mr. Monroe, on the contrary, though he entered upon his admin- 
istration in a time of peace and comparative prosperity, had been a 
soldier. He was engaged in the Revolutionary War from the year 
1776 to its close ; and, though he held no other commission than that 
of a captain of infantry, was in a number of severe battles, and at 
that of Trenton was wounded. lie was also a statesman as well as a 
warrior. 

4. He came into office March 4th, 1817. Daniel D. Tompkins was at 
the same time inaugurated vice-president. Though the prosperity of 
the country was returning, yet it takes a long time for a nation to 
recover from a war, even in its commercial and financial concerns. 
Manufactures were broken down, agriculture was far from being as 
flourishing as it had been, and there was a great scarcity of money, 
especially of specie, 

5. During the summer and autumn of this year, Mr, Monroe made 
a tour through the northern and eastern states, to observe the condi- 
tion of the fortifications along the sea-coast, as well as to make him- 
self acquainted with the state of the country in other respects. A 
similar tour was made, two years afterward, through the Southern and 
Western states, and another still later along the shores of the Ches- 
apeake Bay. 

6. In December 1817, the Territory of Mississippi was divided, the 
western portion, lying along the river, being admitted as a state into 
the Union, The eastern portion was erected into a territory, by the 
name of Alabama. 

7. The early history of this country has been mentioned, in our 
brief account of the travels of Ferdinand de Soto and La Salle. It 
suffered greatly during the wars of the Natchez Indians. The Choc- 
taws for a long time retained and occupied the northern part of this 
state, and were in a good measure civilized. 

8. There was also some trouble this year, 1817, respecting Amelia 
Island, which was a Spanish possession, and had become the resort of 
a set of outlaws. The United States, though at peace with Spain, at 
length determined to take possession of it. This was done by a naval 
force, sent out for the purpose, and without bloodshed, 

8. That of Mr. Monroe ? 4. Who was chosen vice-president with Mr. Monroe ? What was 
the condition of the country at this time ? 5. What tour was made by Mr. Monroe, and 
for what purpose? 6. What can you say of Mississippi ? 7. What of its early history ? 
How did it suffer ? 8. What of Amelia Island ? 
31* 



366 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 



eilAPTEE CLXXXY. 

Monroe's Administration, Continued. — War with the 
Se7ninoles. — Illinois admitted into the Union. — Com- 
mercial Treaty with Sweden. 

1. Between the United States and Florida, or rather partly within 
the limits of both, there was a tribe of Indians called Sem'-i-noles. The 
nation also included, at this time, many of the Creek Indians, who, 
dissatisfied with the treaty their brethren had made with the United 
States, in August, 1813, had tied to the Seminoles. 

2. They also had among them another set of runaways, much worse 
than the vagabond Creeks. These were white traders from various 
nations, who, for the most part, dissatisfied with the slow, honest 
earnings of home, had come hither to gain money by trading with, 
and often by taking unfair advantage of the Indians. 

8. The Seminoles becoming, by some means, excited to hostile 
feelings against their white neighbors, and being also urged on by the 
Creeks among them, began, about the close of the year 1817, to commit 
outrages, after the usual Indian fashion, upon the families on or near 
their borders. 

4. Upon hearing of these outrages, the secretary of war ordered 
General Jackson and General Gaines, with eight hundred regular troops 
and one thousand militia, to proceed against them, and to call upon 
the governors of the several adjacent states for more men, if necessary. 
General Jackson, however, addressed a circular to the patriots, as he 
called them, of West Tennessee, one thousand of whom forthwith 
joined him. 

5. The war was nnmediately and vigorously prosecuted, but in a 
way somewhat peculiar. St. Mark's, a Spanish post, was first seized, 
and afterward Pen-sa-co'-la, the capital of West Florida, also belonging 
to Spain. These places were taken because they favored, or were 
supposed to favor, the cause of the Indians. There was very little 
resistance on the part of the Spanish authorities. 

6. The taking and occupying of these places, with some little skir- 
mishing elsewhere, occupied the time till late in the spring of 1818, 
when General Jackson announced that the Seminole war was closed, 
and returned to Nashville. He was much censured for the manner 



Chap. CLXXXV.— 1. What of the Seminoles? Why had the Creeks joined them? 
2. What of the white traders? 3. What did the Seminoles begin to do in 1S17 ? 4 What 
was ordered by the secretary of war? What did General Jackson do? 5. "What of St. 
Mark's and Pensacola? 6. What was done by Jackson in 1818? Why was he censured! 



ALABAMA ADMITTED AS A STATE. 367 

of his proceeding in this war, notwithstanding his success. His appeal 
to the Tennesseans, and his seizing and occupying St. Mark's and Pen- 
secola, were deemed exceedingly objectionable. His conduct was even 
brought to the notice of Congress, and by the senate partially con- 
demned. 

7. Illinois was admitted to the Union in 1818. Its early history 
has been sufficiently given in connection with the travels of La Salle. 
It was a part of Indiana till 1809, when it became a separate territory, 
in which condition it remained till it was received into the confed- 
eracy. 

8. This state has been little disturbed by civil or internal divisions, 
or by Indian wars. The most serious trouble arose from the appear- 
ance of a new sect there, in the year 1838, called Mormons^ and from 
the attempts to curb their irregularities. 

9. This singular people, believing themselves ill-treated, had assem- 
bled, to the number of seven hundred, under their leaders, in a remote 
part of the state, when a body of three thousand troops marched 
against them, and captured them, with four thousand others. The 
whole sect was at length reduced to submission. After a time, they 
removed to Utah, Their later history will be given hereafter. 

10. A treaty of peace, friendship, liberty of commerce, equalization 
of duties, etc., with Sweden, was concluded at Stockholm, in May of 
the year 1818, by Mr, Russel,tlie United States minivSter at the court of 
Sweden, and signed by the respective governments during the summer 
and autumn of the same year. 



CHAPTER CLXXXVI. 

Monroe's Administration, Continued. — Treaties with 
Spain and Great Britain. — Alabama admitted into the 
Union. 

1. A TREATY of trade and commerce was made, early in the year 
1819, between the United States and Great Britain; in which, how- 
ever, nothing seems to have been said about the old question of im- 
pressment. A treaty with Spain was also made, settling the boundary 

7. What of Illinois ? When did it becoine a separate territory ? 8. How has the state 
been disturbed ? What of the Monnous ? 9. Describe the conduct of the Mormons and 
what was done to them. 10. What treaty was concluded at Stockholm ? 

Chap. CLXXXVI.— 1. What treaties were made in the year 1819? What did the 
United States become bound to pay ? 



368 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

between this country and Mexico. At the same time, the United States 
became bound to pay the Spanish government five million dollars, on 
account of injuries and losses which they had sustained from us. 

2. On the 2d of March of this year, A-la-ba'-ma was admitted to 
the Union. This was the twenty-second member of the confederacy. 
Arkansas was made a territorial government the same year, but was 
not formed into a state till nearly twenty years afterward. 

3. Alabama, with its deep, rich soil, and, in many places, healthful 
and happy climate, remained till after the Revolutionary War a mere 
hunting-ground of the savages. From the peace of 1T83 till 1802^ 
the territory was claimed by Georgia ; and the lands were sold to set- 
tlers and speculators accordingly. 

4. Among other sales was one of twenty-five millions of acres for 
five hundred thousand dollars ; and the money was received and put 
into the treasury. But, at a subsequent meeting of the legislature, the 
validity of the sale was called into question ; and finally, the records 
respecting it were ordered to be burnt and the money restored to the 
purchasers, 

5. In the year 1802, the state of Georgia ceded all her western 
territory to the United States for twelve hundred and fifty thousand 
dollars. This and the act by which the records were destroyed oc- 
casioned lawsuits, which cost the parties great trouble and much 
money. In 1800, as we have seen elsewhere, the present state of 
Alabama became a part of the Mississippi Territory — from which it 
was separated when Mississippi became a state. 



CHAPTEK CLXXXVII. 

Monroe's Administration. Continued. — The States of 
Maine and Missouri admitted into the Union. — The 
Missouri Compromise. 

1. In the year 1638 — the same year in which New Haven was set- 
tled' — Ferdinando Gorges obtained a charter from the king, of all the 
lands from the borders of New Hampshire, on the south-west, to 
Sagadahoc, on Kennebec River, on the north-east, iinder the name of 
the Province of Maine. It remained a separate province till the year 
1652, when it became a part of Massachusetts. 

2. What can you say of Alabama and Arkansas? 8. How was Alabama occupied till 
after the Revolution? What of the claims of Georgia? 4. What took place respecting 
one of the sales? 5. What was done by Georgia in 1S02 ? What of Alabama in 1800 ? 

Chap. CLXXXVII.— What of the charter granted to Gorges, respecting the Proviacd 
of Maine? When did Maine become a part of Massachusetts ? 



ADMISSION OF MISSOUKl. - 369 

2. The history of the settlement of this province has been alluded to 
in connection with the history of the colony of Massachusetts. Various 
attempts were made during the latter part of the eighteenth century 
to form it into an independent state, but none of them succeeded. 

3. The most important of these attempts was made in 1785. A con- 
vention then met for the purpose at Portland. The next year, the 
question of a separation from Massachusetts was submitted to the 
people in their town meetings, on which it appeared that a majority 
of the freemen were opposed to the measure. A similar attempt was 
made in 1802, and with similar results. 

4. In 1819, a large majority were found to be in favor of a sepa- 
ration. A convention was called, and a constitution prepared and 
adopted, and in 1820, Maine became the twenty-third pillar of the 
American Union. At present, this state has about six hundred thou- 
sand inhabitants, and is not only large and populous, but flourishing. 

5. Toward the end of the year 1820, when Congress had come to- 
gether, the question was brought before them whether Missouri should 
be admitted into the Union. The discussion which followed involved 
another inquiry — that of the extension of slavery — and occupied much 
of the session. Provision was, however, at length made for its adrnissioii 
upon certain conditions ;* and these having been complied with,Missouri, 
in August 1821, became the twenty -fourth member of our confederacy. 

6. This state, together with all the territory then belonging to the 
United States west of the Mississippi River, was included in the pur- 
chase of Louisiana from the French, in the year 1803. Louisiana was 
afterward divided into the "Territory of Orleans," or Louisiana proper, 
and the Territory of Missouri. 

7. In 1819, this latter territory was divided into Arkansas, in the 
south, and Missouri, in the north ; and it was about this time that the 
northern or Missouri division took the requisite steps to form a state 
constitution. Since its admission, in 1821, its progress, in population 
and improvement, has been exceedingly rapid. 

2. What attempts were made during the latter part of the eighteenth century ? 3. What 
attempt was made in 1785? In 1S02? 4. What was done in 1819? What of Maine at 
this time ? 5. What discussion was had about Missouri in 1820 ? When did Missouri 
become a state? What of the Missouri Compromise? 6. What was included in the pur- 
chase of Louisiana? How was Louisiana afterwai'd divided? 7. How was Missouri 
divided ? What of it since 1S21 ? 

* In this debate, the Northern members generally urged that in Missouri, slavery should 
be prohibited ; the Southern members took the ground that slavery should be tolerated. 
The discussion caused great excitement, as well in Congress as in the country at large. 
This state was finally admitted, permitting slavery, connected, however, with a general 
act prohibiting it in all new states, north of latitude 86.80 ; that being the northern limit 
of Arkansas, and the southern limit of Missouri. This act called the Misisouri Compromise, 
continued to be regarded by Congress, until the year 18.54, when it was repealed by what is 
called the Kansas-Nebraska Bill, two territories of these names being thereby organized. 

16* 



370 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

8. In 1855 and 1856 great excitement took place in Missouri, in con- 
sequence of the agitation of the slavery question in the contiguous ter- 
ritory of Kansas. Many of the inhabitants, strongly in favor of the 
establishment of slavery in Kansas, passed into that territory, and 
used their influence to promote that object. For tv^^o years the whole 
United States was disturbed by the agitations which ensued. 



CHAPTEE CLXXXYIII. 

Monroe's Administration, Continued. — Territorial Or- 
ganization of Florida. — History of Florida. — Appor- 
tionment of Representatives in Congress at various epochs. 

1. During the session of Congress which closed in tlie spring of 
1832, a territorial government was established for Florida ; and Wil- 
liam Duvall, of Kentucky, was appointed by the president, with the 
concurrence of the Senate, to be the governor. 

2. The unsuccessful attempt of Ponce de Leon to settle this country 
has been mentioned in its place. The Spaniards made several transient 
settlements here at an early date, but the first permanent colony was 
established on the river May, in 1664. Even this came near being 
broken up by starvation the next year. The settlers had been at war 
with the natives — had lost many of their number ; and those who were 
alive had been obliged to subsist on acorns and roots. 

3. Spain held the possession of Florida from the time of its discovery 
till 1763, when it was ceded to Great Britain. In 1781, West Florida 
again fell into the hands of the Spanish ; and in a treaty made in 1783, 
both provinces were given up to Spain, in whose hands they remained, 
with the temporary interruption occasioned by the movements of 
General Jackson, till 1819. 

4. In the progress of the year 1819, a transfer of the whole prov- 
ince was made, by treaty, to the United States. This treaty, after 
much delay, was ratified by Spain, and still more tardily by the 
United States. This act, on the part of the United States, took place 
in February, 1821 ; and possession was given in the following July. 

5. This territory, at the census in 1840, contained fifty-four thou- 
sand four hundred and seventy -seven inhabitants, and March 3d, 1845, 
became a state. Tal-la-has'-see, the seat of government, contains 

8. What agitation took place in Missouri in 1855 and 1856? 

Chap. CLXXXVIII.— 1. What was done by Congress as to Florida in 1823? 2. Who 
formerly attempted to settle the country? What of the first permanent settlement? 3. 
Into whose hands did Florida successively pass? 4, What was done in 1819? What 
took place in 1821 ? 



LAFAYETTE IN AMERICA. 371 

about two thousand inhabitants; and is, probably, the largest town 
in the state, except St. Au-gus-tine', which is about one-fourth 
larger. The latter place, having been founded by the Spaniards in 
1565, is the oldest town in the United States. 

6. Slight changes were made during the session of Congress for 
1822-3, with regard to the representation of the several states in the 
House of Representatives. At first only one representative had been 
sent for every thirty thousand inhabitants; the fractions, in each state, 
going for nothing. The constitution had not, indeed, limited the rep- 
resentation to this number, but had only said that no more than one 
representative should be sent for each thirty thousand people. 

v. After the first census, it was fixed at one representative to every 
thirty-three thousand. The same apportionment continued under the 
second census, but at the third it was made one in thirty -five thousand. 
In 1822-3, it was fixed, for the next ten years, at forty thousand. The 
proportion, after the census of 1830, was one in forty-seven thousand 
seven hundred. The proportion from 1840 was one for seventy thou- 
sand six hundred and eighty. From 1852 it was fixed at one for 
ninety-three thousand three hundred and forty ; the whole number of 
representatives for the United States being two hundred and thirty-three. 



CHAPTER CLXXXIX. 

Administration, Continued. — La Fayette in the 
United States. 

1. The celebrated general. La Fayette, Avho had lived in France since 
the American Revolution, having received an invitation from Congress, 
to visit this country, arrived at New York, August 13th, 1824, and pro- 
ceeded to the residence of Vice-president Tompkins, on Staten Island. 
He was soon after escorted to New York by a splendid array of steam- 
boats, decorated by the fiags of almost every nation in the world, and 
bearing thousands of citizens. 

2. After remaining a few days in New York, he went to Boston, 
where he met with the same cordial and joyful reception. He soon 
after returned to New Y^ork, and visited Albany and the other towns 
on the Hudson, after which he proceeded to Y^irginia, but returned to 
Washington during the sitting of the next Congress. 

5. What was the population of Florida in 1S40? What of Tallahassee ? St. Augustine? 
6. What of the constitution as to representatives? 7. How was the representation ar- 
ranged after the first census? After the second census? In 1822-3? After the census 
of 1840 ? After the census of 1 850 ? 

Chap. CLXXXIX.— 1. What of General La Fayette? His reception in New York ? 
2. What places did he visit? 



372 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 







LAFAYETTE S TOUR. 



8. The next spring, after having passed through the Soiitliern and 
"Western states, he again went to Boston. There, on the 17th of June' 
two days after he arrived, he attended tlie fiftieth anniversary of the 
battle of Bunker Hill ; at which time, beside many demonstrations of 
public joy, the corner-stone of a monument was laid. This was not 
finished, however, till 1842. 

4. The excursions of La Fayette in this country occupied, in all, 
about a year. In this time, he visited every one of the twenty-four 
states. He was everywhere received as a father to the country, and 
his presence everywhere hailed with unmingled joy. The 7th of Sep- 
tember was the day fixed for his departure ; and the frigate Brandy- 
wine was appointed to convey him to his native country. 

5. The parting scene was one of the most aflfecting which was ever 
witnessed in this country. He was to sail from Washington. All 
business was suspended there on that day, and all the oflacers of gov- 
ernment, from the president downward, assembled to bid him farewell. 
He was attended to tlie vessel by the whole population of Washington. 

6. In passing Mount Vernon, he landed to pay a farewell visit to 
the tomb of Washington, but immediately re-embarked, and, after a 
prosperous voyage, was soon once more in his native country. While 
here, Congress gave him two hundred thousand dollars and a town- 



3. What took pla-e at Boston on the ITtli June, 18-24? 4. What time did La Fayette's 
excursions occupy? ^Tow was he i-eceived? 5. Describe the partinsc scene as he left for 
France. 6. What tribu did he pay to the memory of Wasl.ngton ? What did Con. 
tfiess present him with? 



LA FAYETTE IN THE UNITED STATES. 373 

ship of land, as a partial compensation for his services during the 
Revolutionary struggle. 

7. Nothing could have been more gratifying to the people of the 
United States than this visit of the illustrious stranger,* whom, next 
to Washington, they delighted to honor. 

7. How did the people of the Lliited States esteem La Fayette ? 

* The name of this great and good man was Marie Fa^il Jioch Toves Gilbert Motier, 
Marquis de la Fayette. He was born at Auvergne in 1757, and belonged to the court 
of Louis XVI At the age of twenty, having just been married to a young and beautiful 
lady, he left his country and all the pleasures of a brilliant career, to engage in our 
national struggle for independence. That having been achieved, he returned to France. 
In the revolution which began with the destruction of the Bastile in 17S9, he played a 
distinguished part, being at one time commander of the National Guard, and possessing 
such power as almost to make him arbiter of the fate of France. He afterward became 
an object of distrust, and, endeavoring to escape. Avas taken and imprisoned at Olmutz by 
the Austrians. for several years, beins released id 1797. He took a leading part in placing 
Louis Philippe on the throne in 1830, and died in 1834. 



374 



HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 




JOHN QUINCY ADAMS. 



CHAPTER CXC. 
John Quincy Adams's AcMmisTEATioN, from March 4th, 
1825, TO March 4th, 1829. — Difficulties with Georgia. 
— Speculations and Bankruptcies (9/* 1825. 

1. In 1821, Mr. Monroe as president, and D. D. Tompkins as vice- 
president, had been re-elected, almost without opposition, and had duly 
entered upon their second term of office. This having expired, they 
were succeeded, in 1825, by John Q. Adams, of Massachusetts, as Pres- 
ident, and John C. Calhoun, of South Carolina, as Vice-President. 

2. The latter was elected by the people, but, in respect to Mr. 
Adams, there was no choice ; the election therefore devolved upon the 
House of Representatives, as in the first election of Jefierson. During 
a state of great excitement, the choice of Mr. Adams was declared 
February 9th, 1825. 

3. About the time Mr. Adams's administration began, a controversy 



Chap. CXC— 1. What of Monroe and Tompkins as to a second term of oflBce? VV^ho 
succeeded them? 2. What of the election of Adams and Calhoun ? 



DEATH OF ADAMS AND JEFFERSON. 375 

arose between Georgia and the national government, whicli continued 
for some time. It had relation to certain lands, within the state of 
Georgia, held by the Creek Indians, which Georgia claimed as belong- 
ing to herself. 

4. This controversy grew out of an agreement between the general 
government and Georgia, in 1802. In 1825, the Creeks became ex- 
cited and a war seemed inevitable. 

5. After a long negotiation at Washington, and much effort on the 
part of the president and both houses of Congress, the matter was 
finally settled without a resort to arms, but not to the entire satisfac- 
tion of Georgia. This state long retained unpleasant feelings against 
the president and his friends, though he seems rather entitled to praise 
for his conduct during the whole affair, 

6. This year, 1825, was remarkable for a spirit of speculation, which 
prevailed in England and this country, especially in regard to cotton. 
The price of this article rose from twelve to thirty-two cents in the 
course of a few weeks. Many kinds of "West India goods also advanced 
with similar rapidity. 

7. The prices soon receded, and extensive bankruptcies were the im- 
mediate consequence. The fictitious wealth, which the high prices of 
goods had created, suddenly disappeared, and involved thousands and 
tens of thousands in distress, and not a few in utter pecuniary ruin. 



CHAPTER CXCI. 

J. Q. Adams's Administkation, Continued. — Death of 
Adams and Jeferson^ etc. 

1. The most remarkable events of the year 1826 were the death of 
the two ex -presidents, Adams and Jefferson, on the 4th of July, and 
within a very few hours of each other. They had long been ill ; but 
it was hardly to be expected that they would both terminate their ex- 
istence on this particular day. 

2. Jefferson, like Washington, Madison, Monroe, and even Harrison, 
was a native of Virginia. He was born in the year 1743 ; and, of 
course, was eighty-three years old when he died. He was bred a 



3, 4. What controversy arose with Georgia ? When did the Creeks become excited ? 
5. How was the difficulty finally adjusted? 6. For what was the year 1825 remarkable? 
What articles rose in value? 7. What was the consequence of these speculations? 

Chap. CXCI. — 1. When did Adams and Jefterson die ? 2. Where was the latter born? 
At what age did he die ? What can you say of him ? 



376 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

lawyer, and his life was one of great activity, though he was much 
less a warrior, or a civilian, than a statesman. 

3. When the time came for preparing a Declaration of Independence, 
Jefferson was chairman of the committee of five appointed for this 
purpose. He drew the instrument with his own hand ; nor was it very 
materially altered by Congress. 

4. Beside being a member of Congress for many years, he was also 
abroad as minister to France and Great Britain for a considerable 
period. After the close of his second term as president, he retired to 
his estate, called Monticello, in Virginia, where he spent the remainder 
of his days, chiefly employed in writing and in study. 

5. Adams was a native of Quincy, near Boston, but was eight years 
older than Jefferson. He, too, was bred a lawyer, but, like Jefferson, 
did not long practise his profession. The war of the Revolution soon 
called him into such scenes of bustling activity as gave him little time 
for legal practice. 

6. He was early a member of the colonial congresses, and among 
the first to resist the high-handed measures of Great Britain. He 
nominated Washington as the commander-in-chief o^ the American 
army. He was second on the committee, already alluded to, appointed 
to draft a Declaration of Independence ; and, like Jefferson, was one 
of the first to sign it. 

7. In regard to his character, the best eulogium has been given by 
Jefferson. He always said that "the great pillar of support to the 
Declaration of Independence, and its ablest advocate and champion on 
the floor of the house, was John Adams;" and no man knew him 
better than Jefferson. 

8. Though feeble from great age at the arrival ot the fiftieth anni- 
versary of Independence, he had expressed, like Jefferson, a strong 
desire to live to see that day, though he hardly expected it. But he 
knew enough, on the fourth, to know it had arrived; and said, "It is 
a great and glorious day." His last words were, "Jefferson survives." 

9. Madison and Monroe lived several years longer. Monroe died in 
New York, July 4th, 1831, aged seventy-three; thus making the third 
president who had died on the anniversary of our independence. 
Madison died June 28th, 1837, aged eighty-six years. 



3. What great paper did he draw up? 4. To what countries was JeflFerson miuister? 
How did he pass his time after he retired from the presidency ? 6. To what profession 
was Adams bred ? To what scenes was he called from the bar? 6. How was he early 
distinguished? 7. Give his character by Jefferson. 8. Describe the last day of his life. 
9. What of Madison and Monroe ? 



PRESIDENT JACKSON. 



377 




PRESIDENT JACKSON. 



CHAPTEK CXCII. 



Jackson's Administration, from Makch 4th, 1829, to 
Makch 4th, 1837. — His Election. — Van Buren Vice- 
President. — Death of John Jay. — Nullification in South 
Carolina. — Clay's Compromise Act. 

1. Few events worthy of note occurred in the year 1827. During 
the session of Congress which commenced December 4th of that year, 
a bill was passed for the revision of the tariff of the United States ; 
but it did not give universal satisfaction. Some thought it encouraged 
domestic manufactures, etc., too much ; others, too little. 

2. The year 1828 was distinguished for party strife in the election 
of a president. The two opposing candidates were Adams, the in- 
cumbent, and General Jackson. The result of the contest was the 
election of General Jackson by a large majority — one hundred and 



Chap. CXCII.— 1. What bill passed in Congi-ess in the year 1827? 2, Who were the 
candidates for the presidency in the year 1828? Who was elected? What was the 
majority of votes for Jackson ? How did Jackson's administration begin ? 
32* 



378 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

seventy-eight of the votes of the people being given for him, and 
only eighty-three for Adams. It was a majority which even the friends 
of General Jackson himself hardly expected. His administration was 
begun by the appointment of a new cabinet, and by the removal from 
office of a great number of individuals known to be unfriendly to his 
election. 

3. During the year 1829, John Jay, of Bedford, New York, died, at 
the age of eiglity-four. He was one of the presidents of the old 
Continental Congress ; and, without a doubt, one of the greatest men 
of his day. He was a truly good as well as a great man. 

4. Before the close of the Congress which assembled in December^ 
1830, a rupture took place between the president and Calhoun, vice- 
president, which produced other animosities and divisions ; and, on the 
20th of April, 1831, the cabinet officers of the president all resigned. 
During the summer, however, a new cabinet was organized. 

5. A treaty of peace and commerce was made, in the year 1830, be- 
tween the United States and the government of Turkey ; a commercial 
treaty was also concluded with Mexico. Just before President Jack- 
son came into office. General Harrison, afterward President Harrison, 
was made the United States minister-plenipotentiary to Colombia. 

6. On the 10th of December, 1832, Jackson issued his celebrated 
proclamation against the N'ullifiers of South Carolina. These politicians 
maintained that any one of the states might set aside, or nullify^ any 
act of Congress which they deemed unconstitutional and oppressive. 
They called themselves the State Rights Party^ inasmuch as they as- 
serted the rights of the states to be supreme. 

7. These views had been entertained from the adoption of the con- 
stitution by a few individuals; but, until the period of which we are 
now speaking, they had not produced any serious results. The chief 
occasion of the proceedings in South Carolina, already adverted to, 
was the existing tariff laws. Conventions of that state passed resolu 
tions declaring them to be null and void ; and formidable preparations 
w^ere made to resist their execution. 

8. President Jackson's proclamation was aimed at these proceedings. 
Great anxiety and alarm prevailed in the country, and an apprehension 
was entertained that the union was soon to be severed by the open 
rebellion of the state of South Carolina. In this state of things, the 

3. "What can you say of John Jay ? When did he die ? 4. "What rupture took place in 
1830? What of the cabinet? 5. W^hat treaties were made in 1830. To what place had 
General Harrison been sent as minister? 6. What did Jackson do in 1832? Who were 
the NuUifievft? What did they call themselves, and why? 7. By whom had these 
views been Ion? entertained? What was the occasion of the feelings existing in South 
Carolina? What was done by conventions in that state? 8. What anxiety was felt? 
What was the effect on parties ? 



PRESIDENT JACKSON 



379 



divisions of political parties were momentarily forgotten, and even the 
opposers of the president rallied on the side of his proclamation. Few 
Avere found, except those of the state rights party of South Carolina, 
to sustain the movements of the nullifiers, 

9. The difficulty was at length pacified by the Compromise Act, 
brought forward by Mr. Clay, in the Senate of the United States, and 
passed in 1833. This act provided for a gradual reduction of duties 
for the succeeding ten years, when they should sink to the general 
level of twenty per cent. 

10. This compromise act went into operation, and continued till 
1842, when it was superseded by a new tar iti' system, as will be here- 
after related. 



^<i'^-a 



CHAPTER CXCIII. 

Jackson's Administration, Continued. — His Noi'tliern 
Tour. — Removal of the De'posits. — His Second Term. 

1. On counting the votes for ])resident and vice-president of the 

United States, 
in the early 
part of the year 
1833, President 
Jackson was 
found to be re- 
elected by an 
overwhelming 
majority ; and 
Martin Van 
Buren was cho- 
sen vice-pres- 
ident. 

2. One of the 
early acts of 
the president, 
during his sec- 
ond administration, was to pay a visit. May 6th, in company with the 
members of his cabinet and others, to Fredericksburg, to w^itness the 




JACKSON S TOUR. 



9. How was the difficulty at length pacified ? For what did the compromise of 1833^ 
provide ? 

Chap. CXCIII.— 1. Who were elected president and vice-president in 1883? 2. What 
was done May 6th, at Fredericksburg, in Virginia ? 



380 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

ceremony of laying a corner-stone of a monument to the mother of 
Washington. 

3. Wliile the steamboat which conveyed them was on the way from 
Washington to Alexandria, as the president and others were sitting at 
dinner, a dastardly assault was made by one Randolph, late a lieuten- 
ant in the navy, on the president. The company, however, interfered, 
so that Randolph only inflicted a single blow in the face. 

4. It may not be out of place to say here that the centennial birth- 
day of Washington had been celebrated with great pomp and rejoicing 
throughout the United States, on the 22d of February, 1832, or a little 
more than a year before the corner-stone was laid of a monument to 
his mother's memory. 

5. On the 6th of June 1833, the president, with most of his cabinet, 
set out on a tour through the New England states. The objects of 
this tour were similar to those of his predecessors, Washington and 
Monroe; and he was received everywhere with similar demonstra- 
tions of resi)ect. 

6. In the autumn of this year, the president came to the conclusion 
^hat the deposits of the public moneys, amounting to about ten millions 
of dollars, ought to be removed from the Bank of the United States, 
where they had been placed for twenty years, to the state banks. He 
deemed this change necessary, as he said, in order " to preserve the 
morals of the people, the freedom of the press, and the purity of the 
elective franchise." 

7. This was the beginning of a contest in Congress, respecting the 
deposits, which continued a long time, and created much excitement 
throughout the country. The deposits were, however, at length re- 
moved. 

8. These vast sums being placed in the local banks of the several 
states, caused an immense inflation of the currency, and a consequent 
expansion of trade and speculation, which laid the foundation of a 
dreadful state of panic and bankruptcy, a short time after, all over the 
United States. The bitter fruits were reaped under Van Buren's ad- 
ministration. / 

3. What outrage was committed on board the steamboat? 4. When was Washington'^ 
hundredth birthday celebrated? 5. What tour was made by Jackson in IS:^? (i. 
What great change was determined upon by the president, and for what reason? 7. 
What of the contest which was occasioned by the removal of the deposits? 8. What 
vvere the consequences of the removal of the deposits? 



STATE OF ARKANSAS. 



381 



CHAPTER CXCIV. 

Jackson's Administration, Continued. — State of Arkansas. 
Indian Territory. 

1. Arkansas was admitted into the Union, as an independent state 

in the year 1836. 
■^m^. ^^^^^ state lies to 
""""^g= the southward of 
Missouri, and was 
originally, as we 
have elsewhere 
seen, a part of it. 
It has a fine cli- 
mate and prolific 
soil, and is proba- 
bly destined to be 
a very important 
member of the 
confederacy. 

2. The earliest 
settlement of 
whites, within 
the present limits of this state, was made at the Indian village of 
Arkansas, on the river of that name, in the year 1685. The first in- 
habitants and the emigrants who joined them, for many years, were 
French. The progress of the colony was very slow. It is scarcely 
thirty years since the tide of emigration from the Atlantic states began 
to flow in that direction. 

3. Little Rock, the early seat of government, and present capital, 
was laid out in 1820. The first steamboat ascended the Arkansas River 
that year. It was eight days in going from New Orleans to tlie vil- 
lage of Arkansas, which is scarcely one hundred miles above the 
mouth of the Arkansas River. 

4. Arkansas formerly contained within its bosom the remnants of 
several once numerous and powerful tribes of Indians. By a treaty 
made between the United States and the Cherokees, ij 1838, the lat- 
ter agreed to give up to the United States, for a sum equal to five mil- 
lions of dollars, or more, all their lands east of the Mississippi, and to 




EARLY SETTLIiMENT IX ARKANSAS. 



Chap. CXCIV.— 1. When was Arkansas admitted into the Union ? Where is it situa- 
tyd ? 2. When was the earliest white settlement made there ? Who were the first Inhab- 
i tants ? 3. What of Little Rock ? What can you say of the first steamboat ? 4. What of 
Indian tribes in this state ? 



382 



HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 



retire to a region, to be guaranteed to them, in the present state of 
Arkansas. 

5. Since this time, most of the Indian tribes, including, beside the 
Cherokees, the Chickasaws, Choctaw s. Creeks, Seminoles, Senecas, 
and many others, have been removed to a tract between the states of 
Missouri and Arkansas on the east, and the Eocky Mountains on the 
west. This is called the Indian Territory^ of which we shall hereaf- 
ter give a more particular account. 



CHAPTEK CXCV. 

Jackson's Administration, Continued. — Mr. Rives' s Treaty 
with France. — The Florida or Seminole War. 

1. In 1834, owing to the energetic action of President Jackson, the 

French government, 
at the head of which 
was Louis Philippe, 

^v who had succeeded 
'-^rf Charles X., driven 
/\tV^ from his throne by 
^' the insurrection of 
\, 1830, agreed to pay 
■?^ the sum of four mil- 
5^ lions of dollars for 
^i injuries done to 
•^ American commerce 
•s during the wars of 
X"^ Napoleon. The 
treaty for the ad- 
justment of these 
oscKOLA. claims was negotiat- 

ed at Paris by Wil- 
liam C. Rives, of Virginia. 

2. In 1835 commenced what is called the Florida War, a disastrous 
and harassing conflict with the Seminoles and Creeks, which continued 
till 1842, and cost our treasury forty millions of dollars, 

3. The immediate occasion of this struggle was the attempt on the 




5. What of the Indian Territory ? 

Chap. CXCV.— 1. What of Mr. Rives's treaty with France? 2. When did the Florida 
War commence ? How long did it continue ? How much did it cost our government? 



THE SEMINOLE WAR. 383 

part of our government to remove these tribes to the country west of 
tlie Mississippi. A treaty to this effect had been entered into by cer- 
tain agents of the Seminoles, but their chief, Mi-can'-o-py, and their 
leading warrior, Os-ce-o'-la, denied the binding force of this engage- 
ment. 

4. To the natural desire expressed by the latter, that he might rest 
in the land of his fathers, and his children sleep by his side, was added 
a bitter feeling of indignation at having been seized and put in irons 
by General Thompson, the agent of the United States. Dissembling 
his real feelings, and pretending to consent to the treaty of removal, 
Osceola obtained his liberty ; but only to commence the bloody work 
of revenge and slaughter. 

5. The American commanders in this quarter were soon made 
aware of these proceedings. General Clinch was at the time stationed 
in the interior of Florida, at Fort Drane, and being in want of supplies 
and deemed in imminent danger fiom the Indians, Major Dade, with 
one hundred and ten men and officers, was dispatched from Fort 
Brooke* to his relief. On the way, December 28th, Dade was sud- 
denly assailed by a large party of Seminoles, and he and all but one 
of his men were killed, or mortally wounded. 

6. On the same day. General Thompson, while dining with a few 
friends, a short distance from Fort King, was suddenly fired upon by a 
party headed by Osceola, and fell pierced with fifteen bullets. Four 
others, out of the party of nine, were also killed. The savages rushed in, 
scalped their victims, and fled, before they could be arrested by the 
garrison. On the 31st of December, General Clinch had a severe and 
bloody conflict with the Indians on the banks of the With-la-coo'-chee, 
and in the succeeding February, General Gaines was attacked by them 
near the same place. 

7. In May, 1836, several bands of Creeks joined the Seminoles, and 
the war raged with additional fury. In Georgia and Alabama steam- 
boats were attacked, stage-coaches destroyed, towns burned, and many 
of the scattered inhabitants murdered. A strong force, joined by many 
friendly Indians, were, however, sent against them, and they submitted. 
During the summer of 1836, several thousands of them were transferred 
to the country west of the Mississippi. 

3. What was the immediate occasion of this war? What of Micanopy? Of Osceola? 
4. What particular feelings of hatred had Osceola? What of his dissimulation ? 5. What 
of the American commanders in Florida? What of General Clinch? Of Major Dade? 
6. What of General Thompson ? What of the battle of Withlacoochee ? 7, What of the 
Creek Indians ? 

* Fort Brooke is at the head of Tampa Bay, which lies on the western side of the 
peninsula of Florida. Fort Drane is seventy-five miles south-west of St, Augustine, and 
Fort King a few miles to the south-east of St. Augustine. 



384 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

8. The remaining history of tlie Florida war belongs to a subsequent 
administration ; but we may here brietiy note its chief events. It is 
necessary to state, however, that in February, 1836, General Scott had 
been appointed to the command of the army in Florida, but was after- 
ward succeeded by General Jessiip. 

9. In October, 1837, Osceola presented himself with a flag of truce ; 
Jessup received him, and, disregarding the flag, seized him, and sent 
him to Fort Moultrie, near Charleston, where he died the following 
year. According to his education and condition, this savage chief was 
a patriot and a hero ; the more civilized race which triumphed over 
him, only gained their victory by adopting the treacherous policy of 
the savage. 

10. Though they had lost their leader, the Seminoles continued the 
war. In 1838, Colonel Taylor, afterward a renowned general in the 
Mexican war, and still later president of the United States, pursued 
them to the Everglades^ the tangled and almost inaccessible swamps 
of south-western Florida. A fierce and bloody engagement took place 
on the 25th of December, which led to a treaty in 1839. 

11. The Seminoles did not, however, wholly desist from their dep- 
redations till 1842, when peace was finally established. Since that 
time, many of them have been removed to the Indian Territory. 



CHAPTER CXCYI. 

Jackson's Administration, Continued. — The great Fire in 
New Yorh, Deeemher^ 1835. — Decease of Eminent Men^ 
Carroll of Carrollton^ Bandolph of Eoanohe^ and John 
Marshall. — Black HaioTc and other Indian Chiefs. 

1. About the period of which we are writing a remarkable confla- 
gration occurred in the city of New York. It broke out on the night 
of the 16th of December, 1835. The weather at the time was ex- 
tremely severe, and the water of the hydrants was frozen ; the fire, 
therefore, raged till more than thirty acres, covered with dwellings and 
warehouses, were laid in ashes. More than five hundred buildings 
were destroyed, and property to the amount of eighteen millions of 
dollars consumed ! It is an evidence of the renovating vigor of this 
great city, that the district blackened with fire was in a brief period 

8. What occurred in 1836? 9. What of Osceola and General Jessup? Character of 
Osceola? 10. What of General Taylor? 11. What occurred in 184-2? 
<3hap. CXCVI.— 1. What of the great fire in New York, December 16th, 1835? 



DECEASE OP EMINENT MEN. 



385 



covered with buildings of far greater value and utility than those which 
had before existed. 

2. At this point we may notice the decease of several men of great 
public distinction. Monroe had died on the 4th of July, 1838, as we 
have elsewhere stated. Charles Carroll, of Carrollton, in Maryland, 
the last surviving signer of the Declaration of Independence, died at 
the great age of ninety-six. 

8. In May, 1833, John Randolph, of Roanoke district, in Virginia, a 
descendant of Pocahontas, died at the age of sixty. He had served in 
Congress for thirty years, and at some periods had exercised great in- 
fluence ; his eccentricity of personal appearance and conduct, his bitter 
sarcasm and venomous wit, together with occasional flashes of elo- 
quence, rendered him an object of mingled wonder, admiration and fear. 
In 1830, he was appointed minister to Russia by President Jackson. 
4. In 1835, John Marshall, of Virginia, died at the age of eighty- 
five. He had been many years 
chief-justice of the United 
States, and enjoyed a degree 
of confidence and personal es- 
teem, on the part of the people 
of the United States, similar 
to that bestowed on Washing- 
ton, Jay, and a few^ other men 
of the earlier periods of our 
history. 

5. In the autumn of 1836, 
about thirty Indian chiefs and 
warriors, of the Sacs and 
Foxes, with others, were ta- 
ken on a visit through some 
of the principal cities of the 
United States, and at length 
arrived in Boston, where they 
were received with much cer- 
emony. They were exhibited 
at the State House and Faneuil 
Hall, and performed a war- 
dance on the Common. The 
celebrated chiefs Keokuck 




BLACK HAWK. 



and Black Hawk w'ere among them. 



2. "What of Ex-president Monroe ? Carroll of Carrollton ? ". John Randolph ? 4. .Tudire 
Marshall? 5. What happened in tlio fall of 1830? What were the names of some of 
Vuose Indians who came to Boston ? 
33 



SS6 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

6. The latter excited great interest on account of his fine personal 
appearance, and his well known achievements. He had been the leader 
of a portion of the Winnebagoes and of the Sacs and Foxes, in a war 
which raged in Northern Illinois, in the year 1832. While other chiefs 
submitted, he obstinately maintained the figlit, though he was finally 
defeated and captured. 

7. He was kept as a prisoner; but after his tour to Boston, in which 
he had seen the power of the whites, of which before he had no con- 
ception, he was liberated, and, living peaceably for a time, he died in 
Iowa in 1838. 



CHAPTEE CXCYIL 

Jackson's Administkation, Continued. — Michigan admit- 
ted into the Union. 

1, On the 25th of January, 1837, a bill, which had already passed 
the Senate of the United States, for the admission of Michigan to the 
Union as a state, passed the House of Kepresentatives by a large 
majority; and, on the 26th, received the sanction of the president. 

2. Michigan had contained sixty thousand inliabitants, the usual 
number required of a new state as one of the qualifications for admis- 
sion, long before 
this time, but 
diflaculties had 
presented them- 
selves which 
were not adjust- 
ed till now. The 
population, in 
1837, was nearly 
two hundred 
thousand; in 
1840, it was two 
hundred and 
twelve thousand 
two hundred 
and sixty-seven ; 
in 1850, eight 
hundred and 




CATHOLIC PRIEST INSTRUCTING THB INDIANS. 



fifty-one thousand four hundred and seventy 



f), 7. What of Black Hawk ? 

Chap. CXCVIL— 1. What bill passed the Senate of the Unit.jd States in 1837? 2. Pop- 
niation of Michigan at diflPerent periods? 



MICHIGAN ADMITTED INTO THE UNION. 387 

3. The Michigan Territory, when first discovered by the white peo- 
ple, was inhabited by a tribe of Indians called Hurons by the French, 
and Iroquois by the Indians themselves. Many of these were converted 
to Christianity by the assiduous labors of the Jesuit missionaries, as 
early as 1648. It was not, however, till 1670, that the French took 
possession of the territory, and built two forts, one at Detroit and 
another at Michilimackinac ; nor was it really settled till thirty years 
after. 

4. The progress of the settlements, under tlie French, was exceed- 
ingly slow. It was not till the year 1763, when, by the treaty between 
Great Britain and France, it was ceded to the former, that much was 
done in the way of civilization and improvement. Little, indeed, was 
actually accomplished till after the peace of 1783, when the territory 
was given up by Great Britain to the United States. 

5. Until about the year 1800, this territory, for the purposes of gov- 
ernment, was considered a part of the great North-Western Territory. 
After Ohio, Indiana, and Illinois had been severally detached, the re- 
mainder, in 1805, became a distinct territory, of which President Jeffer- 
son made General Hull the first governor. 

6. Michigan was still doomed to much suffering, especially from the 
war of 1812. For almost two years, nearly the whole territory was 
the theatre of conflict, and was necessarily exposed to the barbarity 
of the enemy and their Indian allies. The situation of the state, from 
its contiguity to the great lakes, is almost unrivalled, and Michigan thug 
promises to be one of the leading members of our confederacy. 



3. How was it first peopled? Who converted many of the Indians? Whea did thf^ 
French build two forts in Michigan ? When was Michigan i-eally settled ? 4. When was 
It ceded to Great Britain ? When was it given up to the United States? 5. Relate its 
history after the year ISOO. 6. How did Michigan suffer in the war of 1S12 ? 



388 



HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 




PRKSIDSNT VAN BUREN 



CHAPTER CXCYIII. 



Van Buren's Administration, begun March 4th, 1837, and 
ENDED March 4th, 1841. — The Extra Sessimi of Congress 
of September^ 1837. — Coramercial Distress of the Country. 
— Insurrection in Canada. — The Bo7'der Difficulties in 
Maine. 

1. In 1882 General Jackson, as we liave already stated, Lad been a 
second time chosen to the presidency, Henry Clay, of Kentucky, be- 
ing his competitor. At the same time Martin Van Buren, of New 
York, was elected vice-president. 

2. On the 4th of March, 1887, the latter, having been duly chosen, 
was inaugurated as the eighth president of tlie United States. As 
there was no choice of a vice-president by the people, the Senate 



Chap. CXCVIII.— 1. Who was re-elected president in 1S82? Who was Jackson's com- 
petitor in 1832? Who was chosen vice-president in 1S32? 2. Who became president in 
1837 ? Who became vice-president? How was Richard M. Johnson elected ? 



PRESIDENT VAN BUREN. 



389 



proceeded according to the manner prescribed by the constitution, 
and elected Richard M. Johnson vice-president. 

3. On the 15th of May, the president issued a proclamation requir- 
ing the Congress of the United States to meet on the first Monday of 
September, " on account of great and weighty matters claiming their 
consideration." 

4. These had relation to the financial condition of the country. 
During the months of March and April, 1837, the most unprecedented 
embarrassments were experienced among the mercantile people of the 
United States, especially in the large cities and towns. Suspensions 
and failures in business became of every-day occurrence. In May, 
the number of heavy failures in New York, to say nothing of smaller 
ones, had risen to two hundred and sixty. 

5. In New Orleans, the difliculties were equally great. In two days, 
houses stopped payment there, the aggregate of whose debts was 

more than twen- 
^-^■^^-.c^ ty-seven million 

^^""""" - '-— dollars! In Bos- 
ton, the sufier- 
ing was severe 
but not so great 
as in many other 
})laces. FromlSTo- 
vember, 1836, to 
May, 1837, how- 
ever, there were 
there seventy- 
eight large fail- 
ures and ninety 
small ones, in all, 
one hundred and 
sixty-eight. In 
addition to these 

evils the national treasury was itself suddenly plunged into a state of 

bankruptcy. 




UNITED STATES BANK AT PHILADELPHIA.* 



3. What proclamation was issued in May, 188T? To what did this proclamation refer? 
4. What distress was there in the United States in 1837 ? How many failures were 
there in New York ? 5. What of New Orleans ? What of Boston ? 

* The central office of the United States Bank, was at Philadelphia, and a fine marble 
building was devoted to its use. This bank, which ceased by limitation of its charter, in 
1836, to be a national institution, was rechartered by the state of Pennsylvania as a state 
institution. Thus deprived of the main elements of its strength, and being imprudently 
managed, it was involved in the bankruptcy which, at the period we are speaking of, 
spread over the country. The building above alluded to, which is still one of the orna- 
ments of the city of Philadelphia, is now used for the Custom House of that city. 
33* 



390 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

6. These distresses were, to a very great extent, ciiarged upon the 
government and its measures; that is, to those of the existing as well 
as of the preceding administration. Especially was it attempted to 
trace the difficulties to the war which had been made by President 
Jackson upon the United States Bank, together with various other acts 
relating to the currency of the country. 

7. About the middle of May, 1887, nearly all the banks, from Bos- 
ton to Baltimore, suspended specie payments ; and their example was 
soon followed by the moneyed institutions throughout the country. 
The state of New York passed a law to make the suspension of specie 
payments, by its banks, valid for one year. 

8. The extra session of Congress, which had been called in view of 
the state of the country, continued till the fourth Monday of Decem- 
ber. The people, who had generally attributed the existing evils to 
the action of government, looked to that source for a remedy. Con- 
gress, however, did little more than to adopt measures for replenishing 
the treasury of the United States. 

9. The financial evils of the country continued rather to increase 
than diminish. A general panic continued, and as bank-notes were, 
to a great extent, withdrawn from circulation, and as the currency of 
the country was thus greatly diminished, commodities fell in due pro- 
portion. Under the influence of distrust, property of all kinds lost its 
value, and a general state of depression and paralysis continued till the 
year 1842. 



CHAPTER CXCIX. 

Yan Buren's Administration, Continued. — The Canadian 
Rehellion. — The Border Difficidties in Maine. 

1. A SPECIES of insurrection having, during the year 1837, broken 
out in Canada, and some of our restless and lawless citizens on the 
frontier having taken part in it. President Van Buren, on the 5th of 
January, 1838, issued a proclamation to such persons to return peace 
ably to their homes, on penalty of being punished according to the 
existing laws of the United States. 

2. On the 14th of the same month, a body of about five hundred 
American 'and Canadian troops, on Navy Island, near Niagara Fall^ 



6. To what causes was this distress attributed? 7. What happened in May 1887? 8. 
What was done by Congress at the extra session ? 9. What was the state of the country 
at this time ? 

Chap. CXCIX.— 1. What of an insurrection in Canada, in 1887? 



THE CANADIAN REBELLION. 39] 

evacuated tlie island, surrendered the arms belonging to the Unitec^ 
States and the cannon belonging to the state of New York, and dis' 
banded. They, however, took a hostile position, soon afterward, a^ 
Bois Blanc, near Detroit, and continued their warlike designs. 

8. On the 1st of March following, about six hundred more of tlie 
'■'' 2Mt7'iots,'''' as they called themselves, under the command of Dr, 
Robert Nelson and Colonel Cote, surrendered to General Wool, of 
the United States army, near the Canada line, in Vermont ; and the 
border war seemed at length to be over. 

4. But the troubles were not yet at an end. An attempt was made, 
November 13th, by about three hundred Canadians and inhabitants of 
the United States, to take Prescott, in Upper Canada. Between the 
13th and 16th, one hundred and two of them were killed and sixty 
taken prisoners. On the 16th, one hundred more surrendered near 
Prescott, The rest fled to the woods. 

5. President Van Buren now issued a second proclamation, the ob- 
ject of which was, to warn all who should persist in the scheme of 
invading Canada, that, to whatever miseries or sufferings they might 
reduce themselves, or become reduced, the government of the United 
States would never interfere in their behalf; but they must be left to 
the consequences of their folly. This course appears to have had its 
due effect. 

6. While the preceding difficulties were at their height, a long 
pending dispute as to the boundary between the state of Maine and the 
contiguous British province of New Brunswick, suddenly assumed a 
very threatening aspect, and actually led to preparations for arme(J 
hostilities between the two countries. 

7. The militia of Maine and the forces of the province were called 
out, and an immediate collision was imminent. In this emergency., 
the president sent General Scott to the scene of disturbance, and lie 
was able, by his sagacity, prudence and good management, to adjust 
the dispute for the time. The boundary was finally settled by treaty 
at Washington, August 20th, 1842. 

2. What was done in January, 1S37? What further occurred on the 14th ot the same 
month ? 3. What surrender was made to General Wool ? 4, What happened in Novem- 
ber ? How many were killed ? How many surrendered ? 5. What proclamation did 
Van Buren now issue? 6. What of the difficulty as to the Maine boundary? 7. What 
of General Scott? When was the question finally settled? 



392 HISTORY OF TEE UNITED STATES. 



CHAPTER CC. 

Yan Buren's Administration, Continued. — The Smith- 
sonian Institute. — The Patent- Office and General Post- 
Office Burned. — The Exploring Exjjedition. — The Sub- 
Treasury. 

1. The pecuniary difficulties of the country did not wholly prevent 
the diffusion of intelligence or the spread of a spirit for puhlic improve- 
ment. Indeed, a zeal for literary and moral culture seems to have 
pervaded, unusually, all ranks and classes of the community. Several 
national measures, for literary and scientific improvement, were agi- 
tated, 

2. On the ITth of December, 1835, the president of the United 
States communicated to Congress a report of the secretary of state re- 
lating to a bequest of one hundred thousand pounds sterling, or about 
five hundred thousand dollars, from James Smithson, of London, to 
the United States, for the purpose of founding at Washington an estab- 
lishment to be called " The Smithsonian Institution, for the increase 
and diffusion of knowledge among men." 

8. This bequest created, at first quite a sensation in the United 
States, and a good deal of interest was manifested with regard to its 
proper application. The subject was permitted to rest till the year 
1846, when an act was passed for establishing the Smithsonian Insti- 
tution^ at Washington. It is devoted to scientific purposes, and an 
ample building has been erected for its use,* 

4, A remarkable fire took place at Washington, December 15th, 
1836, during which the patent-office and post-office were burned. 
Among the contents of the patent-office thus destroyed, were seven 
thousand models of patents, out often thousand which had been granted 
by Congress ; one hundred and sixty-three large folio volumes of records ; 



Chap. CC. — 1. What ef improvement in literature and morals? 2. What of the 
Smithsonian bequest? 8. What of the Smithsonian Institution? 4. What fire was there 
ut Washington in 1836? What valuable things were burned in the patent-office? 

* The Smithsonian Institution is situated on the south side of Washington; the build- 
ing is in that style of architecture called Romanesque ; it has a fine appearance, and is one 
of the great attractions of the city. The grounds around it are extensive and Wauti- 
ful. The beneficial influence of this important establishment is already felt; it has 
printed several scientific works of great value, and has extensive collections in nat- 
ural history, as w«ll as general literature and science. The great library room, which 
has already a large number of valuable works, is capable of containing one hundred thou- 
sand volumes; the lecture-room can seat twelve hundred persons ; the rooms for the 
museum and chemical experiments are spacious and convenient. 



THE SMITHSONIAN INSTITUTE. 393 

twenty-six large portfolios, coutaiuing nine thousand valuable draw- 
ings, and ten thousand original descriptions of inventions. 

5. It was a most severe calamity to the country, and calculated to 
damp, in no small degree, the rising spirit of public improvement. The 
misfortune was the more to be regretted, as it was believed to be the 
work of incendiaries. It is gratifying to know, however, that, through 
the activity of Mr. Ellsworth, the superintendent at the time, the loss 
by the lire was, in a great measure, repaired. 

6. On the 18th of August, 1838, the Vincennes, a sloop of war, of 
twenty guns, the Peacock, of eighteen guns, the Porpoise, often guns, 
and three smaller vessels, departed on an Exploring Expedition, having 
on board a number of learned men, in the various departments of 
natural science. The fleet set sail from Hampton Roads, in Virginia. 

T. The squadron returned in June, 1842, after an absence of nearly 
four years, having circumnavigated the globe, and visited and actually 
surveyed many parts before unknown. It accomplished fully the ob- 
jects for which it was designed. The various vessels of the squadron 
sailed, during their absence, about four hundred thousand miles. Only 
eight of the men died of disease during the whole term of absence! 

8. Among other things, the squadron brought home a large and val- 
uable collection of live plants, bulbs, etc., collected in the islands of 
the Pacific, at the Cape of Good Hope, and elsewhere, which were 
placed in a garden at Washington. They brought a valuable collec- 
tion of prepared specimens of plants and animals, which are now de- 
[losited in the Smithsonian Institution. 

9. They also brought with them a chief of the Figi [fee' -gee] Islands, 
w lio, with others, had massacred and eaten the crew of a brig from 
Salem, Massachusetts. They also discovered, January 19th, 1840, what 
was supposed to be the shore of an antarctic continent.''' Along this 
they coasted for seventeen hundred miles, from east to west. 

10. The proceedings against the Bank of the United States, f with 
the removal of the public deposits, an(l the discussion which grew out of 
it, led to the introduction of a bill into Congress, called the Sub- 

5. What was the effect of this misfortune ? 6. What Exploring Expedition set out 
fioui Hampton Eoads ? 7. "What did it accomplish? How long was it absent? How 
many miles did the vessels sail? 8. What was brought home? 9. "What of a Figi chief? 
What continent had they discovered ? 10. "What can you say of the sub-treasury bill ? 

* This continent was situated about two thousand miles south of New Holland, or 
Australia ; on the same day a part of the same coast was seen by Commodore d'Urville, 
of a French exploring expedition. 

t The Bank of the United States Avas chartered in 1816, for twenty years. General 
Jackson vehemently opposed its recharter in 1836, and he was finally successful (see note 
page 8S9). The sub-treasury was designed to furnish depositories for the public moneys, 
as the united States and its branches had done, for twenty years, prior to the removal of 
the deposits by General Jackson. 
17* 



394 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

Treasury or Independent Treasury bill ; which, during the session ol" 
1839-40, underwent a thorough discussion. 

11. The object of this bill was to provide for the collection, safe- 
keeping, transfer, and disbursement of the public revenue of the United 
States, without any connection with, or dependence on banks. A part 
of the plan was to have the revenue, after a reasonable time, wholly 
[)aid in goid and silver of the United States currency. 

12. This bill passed the Senate of the United States, on the 23d of 
January 1840, but did not pasH the House of Eepresentatives till the 
30th of June following. It was so radical a change that it created a 
very strong sensation throughout the United States, and was repealed 
immediately after the accession of General Harrison to the presidency. 
It was, however, restored on the accession of Mr. Polk, in 1845, and 
has since been in operation. 

11. What was the object of the sub-treasury ? 12. When did it pass the Senate? When 
the House of Eepresentatives ? Why did it create so much sensation ? What of the repeal 
and restoration of this law ? 



PRESIDENT HARRISON. 



395 




PRESIDENT HARRISON. 



CHAPTER CCl. 



Haerison's Administration, begun March 4th, 1841. — . 
The Democratic Party. — The Whig Party. — The ^^ Har- 
rison Campaign^ — Harrison and Tyler elected. — The 
Extra Session. — Harrison's Heath. 

1. We now approach a period of great political excitement in the 
United States. General Jackson liad enjoyed an unexampled degree of 
popularity. The party which had held the name of Republican from 
the time of Jeiferson down to the period of the war, had now assumed 
the name of Democracy. Jackson became its head, and such was the 
favor bestowed on him by his political friends, that for a time they 
assumed the name of the JacTcson party. 



Chap. CCI.— 1. What had General Jackson enjoyed? What of the Republican partr ? 



Sdi) HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

2. Mr. Van Buren bad been tbe avowed candidate of General Jack- 
son as bis successor, and witb tbe great weigbt of bis influence, lie was 
elected in tbe first instance — tbat is in 1836 — over bis competitor, 
General Harrison. In acknowledgment of tbe services tbus rendered, 
Mr. Van Buren declared it as bis chief ambition to walk in tbe foot- 
steps of bis Illustrious Predecessor. 

3. Tbougb tlie country, at tbe close of Jackson's administration, bad 
appeared to be in a state of general prosperity, a tempest of bank- 
ruptcy and ruin, as we bave seen, soon after suddenly overwbelmed 
tbe country, from one end to tbe otber. 

4. A very extensive impression prevailed tbat these disasters were 
the legitimate result of tbe system adopted by Jackson, and followed 
up by Van Buren. Even some of those who held tbat tbe Bank of 
tbe United States ought not to bave been continued, and tbat some 
new financial system ought to bave been adopted, believed tbat tbe 
mode in which tbe change bad been effected, was rash, and was carried 
on more in a partisan than a patriotic spirit. 

5. At all events, the country in 1840, when the election for a suc- 
cessor to Mr. Van Buren was approaching, was in a state of tbe most 
calamitous prostration. Thousands of our citizens were in a condi- 
tion of hopeless bankruptcy ; manufactures were ruined, property was 
without value, and labor without reward. 

6. Tbe Federal party bad ceased to exist : tbe opponents of Jack- 
son and the system which emanated from his administration, bad taken 
the name of the Whig party. Again nominating William Henry Har- 
rison, the wise and experienced governor of tbe North- Western Ter- 
ritory, a successful general in tbe late war with Great Britain, and now 
a farmer at North Bend^ on tbe Ohio, for their candidate, tbe Whigs 
went into the political contest witb numerous advantages, 

7. Tbe canvass for several months, prior to the day of election, 
created the most intense excitement throughout the United States. Tbe 
business of tbe country being generally paralyzed, tbe people bad 
time to bestow upon their political affairs. Everywhere long proces- 
sions witb mottoed banners were seen marching to music, and every- 
where tbe debate of the pending questions was beard in tbe streets, 
in fields and barns, and in vacant factories, in tbe haunts of the 
citizen, the mechanic, tbe artisan, and the farmer. 

8. Tbe result was such as might bave been expected. Harrison was 

2. What of General Jackson as to Mr. Van Buren's candidacy for tbe presidency ? 
What did Mr. Van Bnren acknowledge ? 3. State of the country at the close of and 
after Jackson's administration ? 4. What extensive impression prevailed ? What did some 
of those opposed to a United States Bank believe? 5. What was the actual state of the 
-ountiy in 18t0 ? 6. What of tlie Federal party at this time ? The Whig party ? What of 
William Henry Harrison? 7. Describe tbe canvass of 1S40. 



DEATH OF HARRISON. g97 

elected president by an immense majority, and Jolin Tyler, of Vir- 
ginia was chosen vice-president, 

9. A new cabinet was immediately organized, and, in view of the 
state of public sentiment and the condition of the country, an extra 
session of Congress was ordered ; but, in the midst of his career, Gen- 
eral Harrison was seized with sickness, and died in about one month 
after his inauguration ! 

S. What of tlie resr;lt? 9. What of a new cabinet? 



398 



HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 



^m 




PRKSIDKNT TYLER. 



CHAPTEE ecu. 

Tyler's Administration, begun April 4th, 1841, and p:ndkd 
March 4th, 1845. — Measures of the Extra Session. 
— Bupture of Tyler with his CaUnet and his Party, — 
The Webster- Ashhurton Treaty. 

1. The Constitution of the United States provides that, in case of 
the death of the chief magistrate, the vice-president shall be his suc- 
cessor. Mr. Tyler was, therefore, the constitutional successor of Presi- 
dent Harrison, and immediately entered upon the discharge of his duties, 

2. The extra session of Congress called by General Harrison com- 
menced on the 31st day of May, 1841, and continued to the 13th day 
of September. Several important measures were brought forward, 
and either adopted or defeated. Tlie Sub-Treasury was repealed, and. 



Chap. CCII. — 1. What does the Constitution provide? "Who succeeded HavHson? 
2. What important acts wore passed by the extra session called by Harrison ? 



MEASURES OF THE EXTRA SESSION 399 




DANIEL WEBSTER. 



after much discussion, a general Bankrupt Law was passed. Two 
several bills passed both houses of Congress, chartering a new bank 
of the United States, but they were vetoed by President Tyler. 

3. This course, on the part of the chief magistrate, was regarded by 
the party who had elected him as a violation of his pledges ; and, con- 
sequently, a state of complete alienation grew up between him and 
those to whom lie was indebted for his election. His entire cabinet, 
with one exception, that of Daniel Webster,* secretary of state, re- 
signed, and the president was generally denounced by his late sup- 
porters. 

4. In the year 1842 several important events occurred. A treaty was 
negotiated at Washington between Mr. Webster, on the part of the 
United States, and Lord Ashburton, on the part of Great Britain, 



3. What course, pursued by Tyler, alienated his political friends ? What of his cabi- 
net? 4. "What of the treaty negotiated by Mr. Webster and Lord Ashburton ? 

* Mr. Webster was very much blamed at this time by many of the Whig party for not 
leaving the cabinet with his associates ; but the important measures at that time in his 
hands, and which he afterward brought to completion, seemed to him to require his re- 
maining at his post; and this view has since been generally adopted. by the public. 



400 HISTORY OF THE UNlTED STATES, 

which was soon after ratified by the two countries. This treaty hap- 
pily adjusted the dispute in relation to the north-eastern boundary of 
the United States, which had existed for almost thirty years, and had 
nearly produced hostilities between the state of Maine and the prov- 
ince of New Brunswick, as we have already stated. 

5. It also settled several other difficulties existing between the two 
countries, and dissipated the prospects of war, which had long been 
threatened. The negotiations Avere conducted with great frankness 
and fairness on tlie part of the two diplomatists, and oflered a singular 
contrast to the artifice and trick which have generally marked national 
diplomacy. We may, at least, hope that an example so consonant to 
the enlightened age in which we live, shall become the guide of all 
future statesmen. 



CHAPTEK CCIII. 

Tyler's Administration, Continued. — The Tarif of 
1842. — TJte Dorr Rehellion, — Fatal Explosion on the 
Potomac. 

1. At the close of the session of Congress, in 1842, a new tariff act 
was passed, after an elaborate discussion, designed to give encourage- 
ment to the various industrial pursuits of our own country, as well as 
to supply the treasury of the general government. This act was fol- 
lowed by a speedy revival of trade — a restoration of commercial con- 
fidence, and a return of prosperity throughout the land.* 

2. The year 1842 was signalized by an agitation in Rhode Island, 
headed by Thomas W. Dorr, a lawyer of that state. The design of 
this movement was to set aside the ancient charter of that state, which 
still continued to be its constitution, and this was to be done by spon- 
taneous and unauthorized acts of the people, and not according to 
legal forms. 

3. The opposers of this movement, called the Charter party^ were 
willing to adopt a new and more liberal constitution, but they main- 
tained that this should be done in a legal and authentic manner. Upon 

5. "What of other difficulties? What may be said of the manner in which the negotia- 
tions were conducted ? 

Chap. CCIII.— 1. What of the new tariff of 1842 ? Its effect ? 2. Describe the rebellion 
of Dorr in Rhode Island. 3. What was desired by the Charter party? 

* This tariff act was superseded by another in 1846, sifter the election of Mr. Polk. 
This reduced the duties, and based them upon vuluation, instead of being specific^ as in 
the tariff of 1842: with some modifications, it is the tariff at present in existence (1859). 



THE DORR REBELLION. 401 

the mode of forming a new constitution, parties were formed, and a 
violent state of excitement followed. 

4. The revolutionary party actually proceeded to the formation and 
adoption of a constitution, and elected Dorr as governor, with a legis- 
lature. These officers met at Providence in 1843, passed various acta, 
and adjourned. 

5. Matters soon came to a crisis. The existing government caused 
several persons engaged in this movement, to be arrested, and Dorr 
resorted to arms. With a small band of followers, he threatened to 
attack the arsenal at Providence, but being deserted by a part of his 
adherents, he fled ; on the borders of the state he collected a number 
of persons, most of them from the city of New York and the states 
adjacent to Rhode Island, and, proceeding to the village of Che-pach'-et, 
began to intrench himself there. 

6. He had, it is supposed, about fifteen hundred men, but the gov- 
ernment of the state had now assembled a large force, and these began 
their march upon the insurgents. Perceiving the hopelessness of his 
enterprise, and now finding that a large majority of the people of the 
state were opposed to his proceedings, Dorr withdrew, and his men 
were speedily dispersed. 

7. Subsequent to this, the friends of law and order in the state suc- 
ceeded in forming and establishing a new constitution, according to 
the prescribed forms, and this went quietly into full operation, by the 
sanction of a large majority of the people. ' Dorr was tried and im- 
prisoned, but afterward released. 

8. In March, 1843, a tragical event occurred on board the United 
States steamship Princeton. She was returning from an excursion 
down the Potomac, under command of Commodore Stockton, hav- 
ing the president, with his secretaries and their families, and several 
members of Congress, on board. By the bursting of a gun, Mr. 
Upshur, secretary of state, and Mr. Gilmer, secretary of the navy, 
were killed, and seventeen other persons were wounded, some of them 
mortally. 

4. The revolutionary party ? 5. "What was done by Doit ? Where did he intrench 
himself? 6 What force had he? What did he finally do? 7. What constitution was 
formed ? What was done with Dorr ? 8. What of the steamship Princeton ? 
34* 



402 



HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 



CHAPTER CCIV. 

Tylkk's Administration, Continuiod. — Cdehration of the 
Co7(i]jletion of the Bunker Hill Monument. — lowct and 
Florida admitted into the Union. — Annexation of 
Texas I its admission into the Union. 

1. The summer of 1843 was marked by oue of tlie most imposing 
spectacles that has ever been witnessed in 
i the United States. On the iTth of June, 

an immense concourse of people was as- 
sembled upon Bunker Hill, to celebrate the 
completion of the noble monument erected 
in commemoration of the battle that was 
fought there sixty-eight years before, and 
which marks the very spot where the 
patriotic Warren fell. 
^^ 2. In the presence of nearly thirty thou- 

sand spectators, among whom were the 
pi-esident of the United States and his 
cabinet, Mr. Webster pronounced one of the 
most impressive orations that ever fell from 
human lips. 

3. In addition to the natural interest 
belonging to this ceremonial, it was 
remarked, as a grate- 
ful tribute to the high 



flW 











BUNKEIl HILL MONUMENT. 



state of civilization which characterizes the people, that, though one 
hundred and fifty thousand strangers were that day in the city of Bos- 



Chap, cci v.— i. Describe the celebration at Boston of June 17tb, 1843. 2. What of 
Daniel Webster? 8. What was remarked of the people of Boston ? 



TREATY WITH CHINA. -lirS 

toll and the vicinity, not an instance of riot occurred, nor was a soli- 
tary individual sent to the watch-house during the ensuing night ! 

4. We may at least hope and believe that, in spite of the various con- 
vulsions which have occurred for the last few years, the standard of mor- 
als, in our country, is higher than at any former period of our history. 

5. On the 10th of January, 1845, an important treaty with China, 
negotiated by Caleb Cushing, of Massachusetts, with the Governoi-- 
General, Tsiyeng, on behalf of the Emperor Taou Kwang, was ratified 
by the Senate. By this treaty, the relations of our country with China 
were placed on a more favorable footing than ever before. 

6. During this year, 1845, bills for the admission of two new states 
into the Union, Iowa and Florida, were passed by Congress. The first 
was rejected by the people of that territory ; the latter was accepted, 
and Florida, as already stated, became one of the United States. 
Iowa* was admitted the next year. 

7. On the 1st of March, 1845, the president signed the bill for the 
annexation of Texasf to the Union. This measure had been some time 
in contemplation, and in 1844 liad been attempted by a treaty on 
the part of President Tyler. Now the subject was presented in a dif- 
ferent form and consummated by Congress. Texas was soon after ad- 
mitted as a state. 



4. What may we hope? 5. What of the new treaty with Chiua? 6. What of Iowa? 
FhH-ida? 7. The annexation of Texas? 

* Iowa derives its name from the Indians, it was ii eluded in the Louisiana purchase 
ami was first settled at Dubuque by the French in 1686. It formed part of the Missouri 
territory from 1804 to 1821, when it was included in the Michigan Territory, and subse- 
quently in the Wisconsin Territory. 

t The vast territory of Texas was explored by Ponce de Leon and La Salle. It was 
claimed both by Spain and France, but fell under the dominion of the latter. It how- 
ever continued to be almost without jxipnlation, except roving bauds of Indians. After 
Mexico became independent, a grant which had been majcle to Moses Austin, a native of 
( onnecticut, comprising a large tract in this province, was confirmed by tlic new govern- 
ment. This being transferred by Moses Austin, at his death, to his son Stephen, was 
afterward extended by a further grant. Emigration from the United States was en- 
couraged, and in 1880 nearly ten thousand Americans had settled in this territory. 

The prosperity of these inhabitants excited the jealousy of Mexico, and under the gov- 
ernment of Santa Anna, an unjust and oppressive policy was adopted. Remonstrance 
being found to be useless, the people of Texas declared their independence. In 1835, the 
revolution commenced by a battle at Gonzales, in which five hundred Texans obtained 
a victory over one thousand Mexicans. Other engagements took place, the result of 
which was the dispersion of the Mexican army. 

Santa Anna now made a vigorous effort, and appearing in March with a force of eight 
thousand men, several bloody engagements followed. On tlie 21st of April, having a force 
of fifteen hundred soldiers, he was met by General Samuel Houston, on the banks of the 
San Jacinto, with eight hundred Texans, and totally defeated. Santa Anna himself 
was captured the nest day in the woods, and acknowledged the independence of Texas, 
though the Mexican Congress refused to ratify this act. Active hostilities were now at)an- 
doned by Mexico, and the independence of Texas was acknowledged by the United States. 
France, Great Britain, and other Eurojiean countries. It was in this state of things that 
Texas was annexed to the Uni.ed States. 



404 HISTOUY OF THE UNITED STATES. 




PRESIDENT POLK. 

CHAPTER CCY. 

Polk's Administration, from March 4:Th, 1845, to March 
4th, 1849. — Death of GeneralJackson. — His Character. 

1. The presidental election of the autumn of 1844 was keenly con- 
tested, and resulted in the choice of James K. Polk, of Tennessee, the 
democratic candidate for president, against Henry Clay, the whig can- 
didate. George M. Dallas, of Pennsylvania, was elected vice-president. 
Mr. Polk and Mr. Dallas were duly inaugurated March 4th, 1845. 

2. On the 8th of June of this year General Jackson breathed his 
last, at his residence in Tennessee, called the Hermitage. He was a 
man of great energy of character, and during his })residency was the 
idol of his party. As he had warm friends, so he had bitter enemies; 
a fact which is easily comprehended when we consider the general re- 
sult of his administration. 



Chap GOV. — 1. What of the oloetion of the autumn of 1S44? Who were chosen presi- 
dent and vicc-presideuL? Who was the whig candidate fur president? When were 
Polk and DaUas inaugurated 'i 2 When did General Jackson die? Wl-at of his churao 
ter ? What of his, friends and enemies ? 



DEATH OF GENERAL J A C K S i\ . 405 

3. He was the chief instrument in overturning tlie great n^easures 
established Lj preceding administrations, and advocated by the Whig 
l)arty. These embraced a United States Bank as the fiscal agent of 
the government; encouragement of Internal Improvements^ such as 
])ublic roads, railroads, etc., of general utility or necessity, by the 
general government; encouragement of our manufactures by a Pro- 
tective Tariff* on foreign imports, etc. In place of these, the measures 
advocated by the democracy, such as the Sud- Treasury, i a repudia- 
tion of internal in:iprovements, except those of a commercial and 
universal nature; a tariif, favoring the doctrines of Free Trade,l etc., 
became parts of the policy of the government. 

4. Such vast changes, effecting a sudden and complete revolution in 
financial affairs, public as well as private, naturally excited intense 
feeling. General Jackson was, however, warmly sustained by the 
great majority of his party, and these, for the time, constituted the 
majority of the people of the United States. 

5. In deciding upon the acts as well as the character of a juiblic 
man, who is vehemently praised by his friends, and as strongly con- 
demned by his enemies, during his lifetime, we are bound to exercise 
great care and soberness of judgment. Without pretending to decide 
upon General Jackson's administration — for the time has hardly come 
for this — we may, however, express the general conviction that he was 
honest and patriotic in his intentions. 

3. What measures was Jackson cliiefly instrumental in overthrowing? "What measnrea 
were substituted? 4. Why did sucli vast changes excite intense feeling? By whom wag 
General Jackson sustained in his measures and policy? 5. When should we exercise 
great care and soberness of judgment? What general conviction may we express as to 
General Jackson's feelings and intentions? 

* The policy of the Whig party was denominated the American /Si/.'^te7n, and was eS' 
bvnt'mUy protective in its character. 

t The sub-treasury was not suggested till Mr. Van Buren's time, nor was it established 
till Polk's administration ; but General Jackson laid the foundation for it in his success^ 
fill opposition to the United States Bank. 

X Free trade is that system which favors a free commercial intercoiirse hettoeen na- 
tionn ; that is, without duties on imports ; and is opposed to that system which has been 
followed for centuries by nearly all nations, in taxing the products of foreign countries, 
so as to give encouragement to the labor and industry of the home country. The Whigs 
advocated the imposing of duties on the manufactures of Europe, so high as in some de- 
gree to exclude them, thus protecting the labor and products of our own mechanics and 
artisans; the Democrats advocated the reduction of these duties to the lowest scale, thus, 
as far as possible, leaving every body to buy where they could buy cheapest. Inasmuch 
as the main revenue of our government is derived from taxes on imports, the Democrats 
contended that these, which averaged twenty per cent., were sufficient protection. The 
views of i)arties were at length so far modified that incidentdl protection was deemed 
adequate by both; the Whigs, however, contended that taxes should be fipecijic, and be 
adjusted with direct reference to the encouragement of American manufactures The 
Democrats, generally, held opposite views. 



406 HISTOBY OF THK IJNITKD STATES, 

CHAPTER CCVI. 

Polk's Administration, Continued. — The Mexican War. 
— Geiieral Taylor^ -s Moveinents. — Battles of Palo Alto 
and Resaca de la Palma. 

1. We now approach the Mexican war. Texas, as we have seen, 
liad been annexed to the United States, though it was well known 
that Mexico, regarding it as a revolted province, earnestly remonstrate 
ed against the measure. Indeed, among the prominent reasons urged 
in opposition to annexation was the attitude of Mexico, and the cer- 
tainty that it would draw us into a war with that republic* 

2. On the 4th of July, 1846 the legislature of Texas, by accepting 
the joint resolution of Congress jiiiking provision for this event, be- 
came a member of the Federal Union, as we have before stated. Pres- 
ident Polk, aware of the state of feeling in Mexico, ordered General 
Zach'-a-ry Taylor, in conmiand of the troops in the soutli-west, to pro- 
ceed to Texas, and post himself as near to the Mexican border as he 
deemed prudent. At the same time an American squadron M^as dis- 
patched to the vicinity, in the Gulf of Mexico. 

3. In November, General Taylor had taken his position at Cor'-pus 
Chris'-ti, a Texan settlement on a bay of the same name, with about 
four thousand men. On the 13th of January, 1846, 'the president 
ordered him to advance with his forces to the Ri'-o Gran'-de ; accord- 
ingly he proceeded, and in Mai-ch stationed himself on the north bank 
of that river, within cannon-shot of the Mexican town of Mat-a-mo'-ras. 
Here he hastily erected a fortress, called Fort Brown. 

4. The territory lying between the river Nue'-ces and the Rio Grande, 
about one hundred and twenty miles in vvidth,t was claimed both by 
Texas and Mexico ; according to the latter, therefore. General Taylor 
had actually invaded her territory, and had thus committed an open 

Chap. CCVI. — 1. How did Mexico consider Texas ? How did she regard its annexation 
to the United States ? 2. What of Texas on the 4th of July. 1S45 ? What had President 
Polk ordered General Taylor to do? Where was a squadron ordered to go ? 3. What 
had General Taylor done in November? Where was Corpus Christi? What was Taylor 
ordered to do on the 13th of January, 1846? What fort did Taylor erect? 4. What of 
t lie territory between the Nueces and the Eio Grande ? What of General Ampudia? 
What of a party of American dragoons? 

* At this time, Mexico was a republic, its governnient resembling tliat of tlic United 
States ; General Herrera had been jjresident, but his known desire for peace with the 
United States, rendered him uiiixtpular, and General Paredes was elected in his stead. 
He was president of Mexico at tlie commencement of the war we are now describing, but 
was soon after succeeded by Santa Anna. 

t This now forms a part of the state of Texas. 



THE MEXICAN WAR. 407 

act of war. On the 26th of April, the Mexican general, Am-pu'-di-a, 
gave notice to this effect to General Taylor, and on the same day a 
party of American dragoons, sixty-three in number, being on the north 
side of the Rio Grande, were attacked, and, after the loss of sixteen 
men killed and wounded, were forced to surrender. Their commander, 
Captain Thornton, only escaped, 

5. The Mexican forces had now crossed tlie river above Matamoras, 
and were supposed to meditate an attack on Point Is'-a-bel,* where 
Taylor had established a depot of supplies for his army. On the 1st 
of May, this officer left a small number of troops at Fort Brown, and 
marched with his chief forces, twenty-three hundred men, to the de- 
fence of Point Isabel. Having garrisoned this place, he set out on 
his return. 

6. On the 8tli of May, about noon, he met the Mexican army, six 
thousand strong, drawn up in battle array, on the prairie near Pa'-lo 
Al'-to. The Americans at once advanced to the attack, and, after an 
action of five hours, in which their artillery was very effective, drove 
the enemy before them, and encamped upon the field. The Mexican 
loss was about one hundred killed ; that of the Americans, four killed 
and forty wounded. Major Ringgold, of the artillery, an officer of great 
merit, was mortally wounded. 

7. The next day, as the Americans advanced, they again met the 
enemy in a strong position near Re-sa'-ca de la Pal'-ma, three miles 
from Fort Brown. An action commenced, and was fiercely contested, 
the artillery on both sides being served with great vigor. At last 
the Mexicans gave way, and fled in confusion, General de la Ve-'ga 
having fallen into the hands of the Americans. They also abandoned 
their guns and a large quantity of ammunition to the victors. 

8. The remaining Mexican soldiers speedily crossed the Rio Grande, 
and the next day the Americans took up their position at Fort Brown. 
This little fort, in the absence of General Taylor, had gallantly sus- 
tained an almost uninterrupted attack of several days from the Mexican 
batteries of Matamoras. 



5. What of Point Isabel? What of a Mexican force marching against Point Isabel? 
What did General Taylor do? 6. What of the battle of Palo Alto? 7. Describe the 
battle of Resaca de la Palma. 8, What of the Mexicans after the battle of Resaca de la 
Palma? What of Fort Brown ? 

* Point Isabel is situated on the Gulf of Mexico, twenty-one miles north-east of 
Matamoras, the latter being situated on the south bank of the Rio Grande, about twenty 
miles from the Gulf by the windings of the river. 



408 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 



CIIAPTEE CCVII. 

Polk's Administration, Continued. — Declaration of War 
against Mexico. — Preparations. — Capture of Monterey 
hy General Taylor. — Other places taken hy the Amer- 
icans. — California conquer erl hy Fremont and others. 

1. When the news of the capture of Captain Thornton's party was 
spread over the United States, it produced great excitement. The 
president addressed a message to Congress, then in session, declaring 
" that war with Mexico existed by her own act," and that body. 
May 1846, placed ten millions of dollars at the president's disposal, and 
authorized him to accept the services of fifty thousand volunteers.* 

2. A great part of the summer of 1846 was spent in preparation for 
tiie war, it being resolved to invade Mexico at several points. In pur- 
suance of this plan. General Taylor, who had taken possession of Mat- 
anioras, abandoned by the enemy in May, marched northward in the 
enemy's country in August, and on the 19th of September he appeared 
before Mon-te-rey',t capital of the Mexican state of New Le'-on. His 
army, after having garrisoned several places along his route, amountetl 
to six thousand men. The attack began on the 21st, and, after a succes- 
sion of assaults, during the period of four days, the Mexicans capitu- 
lated, leaving the town in possession of the Americans. 

3. In October, General Taylor terminated an armistice into which 
he had entered with the Mexican general, and again commenced of- 
fensive operations. Various towns and fortresses of the enemy now 
rapidly fell into our possession. Tn November, Sal-til'-lo, the capital 
of the state of Coahuilla [co-a-wee' -la]^ was occupied by the division of 



Chap. CCVII.— 1. What effect had the news of the capture of Captain Thornton's party 
\o the United States? What did the president do ? What did Congress do ? 2. What 
of the summer of 1S46? What was resolved upon? What of Matamoras? What of 
Monterey ? 

* It will be observed that the government of the United States, now about to invade 
Mexico, adopted a totally different course from that pursued in the invasion of Canada in 
1S12 In the latter case they required the states to supply a quota of the militia; in the 
former, they supplied trooi>s by calling upon volunteers. The objections made to the 
call for the militia by the New England states, during the war with Great Britain, appears 
therefore to have been deemed valid by the general government ; the success which 
attended the call for volunteers seems to have shown that to bo the true system to be 
followed in similar cases hereafter. 

t Monterey is a town environed with mountains and ravines, and contains fourteen thou- 
sand inhabitants; it is situated nearly west from Matamoras, on the Fernando Eiver, 
wliich flows into the Rio Grande. There is anotiier town by the name of Monterey, 
situated on the Pacific coast, about eighty miles south of San Francisco, in California. 



THE BATTLE OF BUENA VISTA. 409 

'Lrencral Worth ; in Decembei', General Patterson took possession of Vic- 
toria, the capital of Ta-niau-li'-pas, and nearly at the same period, Ooni- 
niodore Perry captured the fort of Tani-pi'-co. Santa Fe, the capital 
of New Mexico, with the whole territory of the state, had been sub- 
jugated by General liarney, after a march of one thousand miles through 
the wilderness. 

4. Events of a startling character had taken place at still earlier 
dates along the Pacific coast. On the 4th of July, Captain Fremont, 
having repeatedly defeated superior Mexican forces with the small 
band under his command, declared California independent of Mexico. 
Other important places in . this region had yielded to the American 
naval force, and in August, 1846, the whole of California was in the 
undisputed occupation of the Americans. 



CHAPTER CCYIII. 

P( )Lk's Administration, Continued. — TTie Battle of 
Buena Vista. — Captiii'6 of Vera Cruz. — March on Mex- 
ico. — Battle of Cerro Gordo. — Victories of Coiitreras 
and Churuh'usco. — The Armdstice. — Capture of Cliapul- 
tepec. — Entrance of the American Army into the City 
of Mexico. — Treaty of Gitadaloujoe-IIidahjo. — General 
Remarhs on the Mexican War. 

1. The year 1847 opened with still more brilliant victories on the 
part of our armies. By the drawing off of a large part of General 
Taylor's troops for a meditated attack on Vera Cruz, he was left with 
a comparatively small force to meet the great body of the Mexican 
troops, now marching upon him, under command of the celebrated 
Santa Anna, who had again become president of Mexico. 

2. Ascertaining the advance of this powerful army, twenty thousand 
strong, and consisting of the best of the Mexican soldiers, General 
Taylor took up his position at Bue'-na Vis'-ta, a valley a few miles from 
Saltillo. His whole troops numbered only four thousand seven hundred 
and fifty-nine, and here, on the 23d of February, he was vigorously 
attacked by the Mexicans. The battle was very severe, and continued 



3. What of the operations of General Taylor and other Mexican towns? Wliat of 
Saltillo? General Patterson? Commodore Perry? Santa F6 and New Mexico? 4. 
What of events on the Pacific coast? 

Chap. CCVIII. — 1. What of General Taylor and Santa Anna early in the yearl84T? 
2. What of the battle of Buena Vista? What was the number of the Mexican soldiers in 
this battle? Of the Americans? Loss of the Mexicans? 
35 



410 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

nearly the whole day, when the Mexicans fled from the field in disorder, 
with a loss of nearly two thousand men. 

3. Santa Anna speedily withdrew, and thus abandoned the region 
of the Rio Grande to the complete occupation of our troops. This left 
our forces at liberty to prosecute the grand enterprise of the campaign, 
the capture of the strong town of Vera Cruz, with its renowned castle 
of San Ju'-an d'Ul-lo'-a. On the 9th of March, 1847, General Scott 
landed near the city with an army of twelve thousand men, and on the 
18th commenced an attack. 

4. For four days and nights an almost incessant shower of shot and 
shells was poured upon the devoted town, while the batteries of the 
castle and the city replied with terrible energy. At last, as the Amer- 
icans were preparing for an assault, the governor of the city offered 
to surrender, and on the 26th the American flag floated triumphantly 
from the Avails of tlie castle and the city, 

5. General Scott now prepared to march upon the city of Mexico, 
the capital of the country, situated two hundred miles in the interior, 
and approached only through a series of rugged passes and mountain 
fastnesses, rendered still more formidable by several strong fortresses. 
On the 8th of April, the army commenced their march. At Cer'-ro 
Gor'-do,* Santa Anna had posted himself with fifteen thousand men. 
On the 18th, the Americans began the daring attack, and by midday 
every intrenchment of the enemy had been carried. 

6. The loss of the Mexicans in this remarkable battle, beside one 
thousand killed and wounded, was three thousand prisoners, forty-three 
pieces of cannon, five thousand stand of arms, and all their munitions 
and materials of war. The loss of the Americans was four hundred 
and thirty-one in killed and wounded. 

7. The next day our forces advanced, and, capturing fortress after 
fortress, came on the 18th of August, within ten miles of Mexico, a city 
of two hundred thousand inhabitants, and situated in one of the 
most beautiful valleys in the world.t On the 20th they attacked and 

3. What of General Scott and the town and castle of Vera Cruz? 4. Describe tlic at- 
tack upon and cajntulation of Vera Cruz? 5. What did General Scott now prepare to 
do? Situation of the city of Mexico? What occiirred at Cerro Gordo? 6 Loss of the 
Mexicans in the battle of Cerro Gordo? 7. Population of the city of Mexico? Its situ- 
ation ? Describe the approach of the Americans to the city ? What occurred on the 
90th of August ? 

* Cerro Gordo is about forty-five miles north from Vera Cruz, the latter being on tho 
Gulf of Mexico, two hundred miles south-easterly from Mexico. 

t Mexico is situated on the west side of Lake Tezcuco, and is encompassed by numer- 
ous marshes and ditches. It can only be approached by means of the long auseways 
connecting it with the surroundinn: country. Beyond tlie causevvays, it was defended by 
the powerful fortifications of ChapuUopcc, Churubusco, Contreras, etc.; these, together, 
being occupied by over thirty thousand Mexican troops ; while General Scott's army only 
numbered about ten thousand. See map of Mexico^ p. 459.) 



PEACK VvITII MEXICO. 411 

carried the strong batteries of Con-tre'-ras, garrisoned bj seven thou- 
sand men, in an impetuous assault, which histed but seventeea minutes. 

7. On the same day, an attack was made by the Americans on the 
fortified post of Chu-ru-bus'-co, four miles north-east of Contreras. Here 
nearly the entire Mexican army — more than twenty thousand in number 
— were posted; but they were defeated at every point, and obliged to 
seek a retreat in the city, or the still remaining fortress of Cha-pul'- 
te-pec. 

8. While preparations were being made on the 21st by General Scott, 
to level his batteries against the city, prior to summoning it to sur- 
render, he received propositions from the enemy, which terminated in 
an armistice. This ceased on the 7th of September ; on the 8th the 
outer defence of Chapultepec was successfully stormed by General 
Worth, though he lost one-fourth of his men in the desperate struggle. 

9. The castle of Chapultepec, situated on an abrupt and rocky 
eminence, one hundred and fifty feet above the surrounding country, 
presented a most formidable object of attack. On the 12th, however, 
the batteries were opened against it, and on the next day the citadel 
was carried by storm. The Mexicans still struggled along the great 
causeway leading to the city, as the Americans advanced, but before 
nightfall, a part of our army was within the gates of the city. Santa 
Anna and the officers of the government fled, and the next morning, 
at seven o'clock, the flag of the Americans floated from the national 
palace of Mexico. 

10. This conquest of the capital was the great and final achievement 
of the war. The Mexican republic was in fact prostrate, her sea-coast 
and chief cities being in the occupation of our troops. On the 2d of Feb- 
ruary, 1848, terms of peace were agreed upon by the American commis- 
sioner and the Mexican government, this treaty* being ratified by the 
Mexican Congress on the 30th of May following, and by the United States 
soon after. President Polk proclaimed peace on the 4th of July, 1848. 

11. In the preceding sketch, we have given only a mere outline of 
the war with Mexico. We have necessarily passed over many inter- 
esting events, and have not even named many of our soldiers who 

T. What of the fortress of Churubusco ? S. What of an armistice on the 21st of Augus^? 
When did this cease ? What of the fort of Chapultepec ? 9. Describe the castle of 
Chapultepec. What of its- capture? What of the struggle of the Mexicans as the 
Americans advanced upon Mexico, along the causeways ? What of Santa Anna and the 
officers of the Mexican army ? What of the American flag? 10. What of this conquest 
of the capital of Mexico? Situation of the Mexican republic? What of peace? 11. What 
is said of the preceding sketch of the war with Mexico? What may be said as to other 
events ? What of General Taylor's operations in the region of the Eio Grande? 

* This is called the treaty of Guadaloupe- Hidalgo, from the name of the place where 
it was negotiated. 



412 



HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES, 



.1 d''^ 




TIIK AMIiillCAX AUJIV t-M EKING Tilt; CiTV UF .MKXICO. 



performed giiUaiit and important services. General Taylor's siiccesstii] 
operations in the region of the Eio Grande were duly honored by the 
people of the United States, by bestowing upon him the presidency. 

12. General Scott's campaign, from the attack on Vera Crnz to the 
surrender of the city of Mexico, was far more remarkable, and, in a 
military point of view, must be considered as one of the most brilliant 
of modern times. It is true the Mexicans are not to be ranked with 
the great nations of the earth ; with a population of seven or eight 
millions, they have little more than a million of the white race, the rest 
being half-civilized Indians and mestizos, that is, those of mixed blood. 
Their government is inefficient, and the people divided among them- 
selves. Their soldiers often fought bravely, but they were badly officered. 

13. "While, therefore, we may consider the conquest of so extensive 
and populous a country, in so short a time, and attended with such 
constant superiority even to the greater numbers of the enemy, as 
highly gratifying evidence of tlie coui-age and capacity of our army, 



12. What of General Scf)tt's campaign ' 
ernment? The Mexican soldiers? 



What of Mexico as to its i)opuhition and gov- 



BEGINNING OF POLK'S ADMINISTRATION. 413 

still we must not, in judging of our achievements, fail to consider the 
real weakness of the nation whom we vanquished. 

14. One thing we may certainly dwell upon with satisfaction — the 
admirable example, not only as a soldier, but as a man, set by our 
commander. General Scott, who seems, in the midst of war and the 
ordinary license of the camp, always to have preserved the virtue, 
kindness, and humanity belonging to a state of peace. These qualities 
secured to him the respect, confidence, and good-will even of the 
enemy he had conquered. 

15. Among the generals who effectually aided General Scott in this 
remarkable campaign, we must not omit to mention the names of 
Generals Wool, Twiggs, Shields, Worth, Smith, and Quitman, who 
generally added to the high qualities of soldiers, the still more esti- 
mable characteristics of good men. 



CHAPTEE CCIX. 

Polk's Administration, Continued. — Stipulatio7is of the 
Treaty of Guadaloupe-Hidalgo. — The Oregon Boundary 
Dispute. — Death of John Quincy Adams. — Wisconsin 
admitted into the Union. 

1. The treaty of Gua-da-loupe'-Hi-dal'-go stipulated that the disputed 
territory between the Nueces and the Rio Grande, should belong to 
the United States, and it now forms a part of Texas, as has been 
already stated ; that the United States should assume and pay the debts 
due from Mexico to American citizens, to the amount of three millions 
five hundred thousand dollars; and that, in consideration of the sum 
of fifteen millions of dollars to be paid by the United States to Mexico, 
the latter should relinquish to the former the whole of New Mexico 
and Upper California. 

2. About the time the difficulties with Mexico began, a serious dis- 
pute arose with Great Britain, as to the boundary line between her 
possessions and ours, in the region of Oregon. Both countries, in 
fact, claimed the same territory. The diflSculty, which for a time threat- 
ened to end in war, was happily adjusted by a treaty made at Wash- 
ington, in Juna 1846, adopting the parallel of 49*^ north, as the nor- 
thern boundary of the United States. 

14. Example of General Scott? 15. What other of our generals may be commended ? 
Chap. CCIX.— 1. What were the stipulations of the treaty of Guadaloupe-Hidalgo ? 2. 
What of the difficulties with Great Britain as to the Oregon bound.ary ? 
35* 



ll-t HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

3. On llie 22(1 of February, 1848, John Quincy Adams, foi-nier pres. 
ident of the United States, died of paralysis, at Washington, Two days 
before, while in his seat in the House of Representatives, and attend- 
ing to his duties, the attack suddenly came. His last words were : 
" Tliis is the last of eartli ; I am content!" Nearly his whole life had 
been spent in the public service. If he had. some faults, he possessed 
also great merits, and few of oiu- public men are remembered with 

lore respect by the people of the country. 

4. In May, 1848, Wis-con'-sin was admitted into the Union, as a state. 
This was part of the territory ceded by France to Great Britain in the 
treaty of 1763 ; at the close of the Revolutionary War, it became part 
of the domain of the United States. It was organized as a territory 
in 1836, the portion forming the state of Iowa being detached in 1838. 



8. What of -Tohii Oninry Adams? 4. What of Wisconsin? 



P R E S 1 1> E N T TAYLOR, 



415 




PRESIDENT TAYLOR. 



CHAPTEE CCX. 

Taylor's Administration, from March 4th, 1849, to July 
9th, 1850. — His Election and Inauguration. — The Wil- 
'mot Proviso and Martin Van Bur en. — The Departineni 
of the Interior. — California. 

1. General Zachaky Taylok, of Mississippi, who had served the 
country so successfully in the Mexican War, being the Whig candidate, 
was elected by a vote of one hundred and sixty-three out of two hundred 
and ninety, as the successor of Mr. Polk, in opposition to General Cass, 
the Democratic candidate. Millard Fillmore, of New York, was elect- 
ed vice-president. General Taylor was inaugurated March 5th, 1849, 
the 4tli being Sunday. 

2. In tliis election, General Cass did not receive the whole democratic 



Chap. CCX. 

can(lidt>tc. 



-L Who was elected successor to Mr. Polk ? Who was the democratic 



416 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

vote. In 1846, as it was foreseen that the war with Mexico would 
probably result in a large acquisition of territory, David Wilniot, a dem- 
ocrat, of Pennsylvania, introduced into the House of Representatives 
a resolution, that slavery should not be admitted into any territory ac- 
quired by treaty. This obtained the title of the Wilmot proviso. It 
did not pass, but a party called Free-soilers adopted its principles, and 
nominated Martin Van Buren, the ex-president, as their candidate for 
the presidency. This party, however, soon ceased, its princii>les being, 
in the main, adopted by the present Republican party. 

3. The several departments of our government at AVashington had 
liitherto consisted of those of State, War, the Navy^ and the Treasury, 
each one presided over by a secretary, appointed by the president. Dur- 
ing the preceding administration, a Department of the Interior had 
been organized, to relieve the secretary of the treasury of a part of his 
increasing and weighty cares, and General Taylor was now called upon 
to appoint the first presiding officer of this new bureau. 

4. About this time events were occurring on the shores of the Pa- 
cific, which soon attracted the attention of the whole civilized world. 
Upper California, by the treaty with Mexico, had became a part of 
the territory of the United States. This remote region had been long 
in the possession of Spanish missionaries, who occupied themselves 
with the double service of extending the sway of the Spanish crown, 
and converting the Indians — numerous in that region. 

5. It thus remained under ecclesiastical administration, till the year 
1833, when the missionary establishments were converted by Mexico 
into civil institutions, under the control of the government. Despite 
the anarchy which existed in Mexican aftairs, this region became set- 
tled by a considerable and thriving agricultural population. 

6. In 1846, when Fremont and his party declared this country in- 
dependent of Mexico, and belonging to the United States, and stil) 
later, when it was actually and finally ceded to us, its resources as a 
farming country attracted great attention. Already was a large 
stream of emigration directed tliither, when in Februarj- 1848, it was 
announced that gold, in astonishing quantities, had been discovered on 
a branch of the Sa-cra-men'-to River. 

7. The news spread over the world with the greatest rapidity, and in 
a few months, many thousands of adventurers, chiefly from the United 
States, but some also from England, France, Germany, as well as from 



2. Dill General Cass have the whole democratic vote ? What of the Wilmot proviso ? 
The Freo-soilers ? Martin Van Buren? 3. What had hitherto been the Departments of 
our government at Washington ? What new Department was now added? 4. Wiiat 
of Upper California? What of the Spanish missions? 5. What did Mexico do in lS;3;i? 
6. What of the resources of California ? What happened in February, 1848 ? 



CALIFORNIA. 



417 




THE GREAT FIRE AT SAN FRANCISCO, MAY 4tH, 1850. 



Mexico, and South America, rushed thither, with a greedy desire to 
secure a share of the newly discovered treasure. 

8. The scenes which followed are not easily described. San Fran- 
cis'-co, originally called Yer'-ha Biie'-na^ and which in 1848 was a small 
village, rapidly grew up into a large city, and though several times des- 
olated by fire,* as rapidly revived from its ashes, and now contain? 
nearly one hundred thousand inhabitants. Other towns sprung up like 
magic. At the present time, 1859, the state is computed to have a 
population of six hundred thousand. The gold annually obtained from 
all the mines of California is estimated at from seventy to eighty mil- 
lions of dollars! 

9. The people of California, suddenly gathered from many countries, 
were for a time without any formal or effective government. The ne- 
cessity of protection to life and property soon became apparent, and ac 
cordingly, in the autunni of 1849, a convention met and formed a con-- 
stitution, which was speedily adopted by the people. 



7, What was the effect of the gohi discovery in California? 8. What of San Francisco? 
Other towns in California? What is the value of the gold annually obtained from Califor^ 
nia ? 9. What of California as to its government ? When was the state constitution formed ? 

* The great fire of May 4th, 1S50, at San Francisco, destroyed nearly the entire city, 
which at that time consisted mostly of slight wooden tenements. The amount of prop- 
erty destroyed was estimated at four millions of dollars. Many of the edifices of San 
Francisco are now of brick and stone, and rival in splendor those of our Atlantic cities. 
18^ 



418 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES, 




CHAPTEE CCXI. 

Taylor's Administration, Continued. — The Compromise 
Measures^ or Omnibus Bill. — Henry Clay — Death of 
President Taylor. — Death of John C. Calhoun. 

1. A PERIOD of great agitation was now at hand. California had 
petitioned for admission into the Union, and as lier constitution pro- 
hibited slavery, many of the Southern politicians in Congress, made 
the most vigorous opposition to granting her request.* 

2. Various other questions connected with this seemed to compli- 



Chap. CCXI. — 1. What of the petition of California for admission into the Union ? 

■'= By the 3Iissouri Comproonifie — that is, a compromise made in Congress at the time 
ftf the admission of Missouri — it was stipulated that slavery should not exist nortli of 
latitude 36.80: imi)]ying, of course, that it might exist south of that line. As a portion 
of California -was south of 'M'lM, it Avas contended by the southern statesmen, that the 
admission of California, with a constitution prohibiting slavery, would bo a violation of 
ihe coiiipromisc. 



THE COMPROMISE BILL OF 185U. 41: 




JOHN C. CALHOUN. 

cate and increase the difiiculty ; in Congress a state of almost unexam- 
pled excitement, indeed, existed, and many persons were under the 
gloomy apprehension that the Union was speedily to he dissolved. In 
this state of things, Henry Clay, who had so often appeared in times of 
difficulty and danger, to assuage the storm, in connection Avith other 
eminent senators, introduced the " Compromise Measures of 1850," 
popularly called the Omnibus Bill. 

3. This contained the following propositions : First, That, according 
to the agreement made on the adoption of Texas, five new states, 
formed of her territory, might be admitted, with or without slavery as 
the people should choose; Second, That California should become a free 
state, according to her constitution; TJiird, That a territorial government 
should be established for New Mexico and U'-tah without any stipula- 
tion on the subject of slavery ; Fourtli, That Texas should surrender 



2. How was tho difDculty increased ? What of Congress ? What of Henry Clay at this 
time ? What bill did he introduce ? 3. What propositions did the Omnibus Bill contain ? 



420 HISTOllV OF THE UNITED STATES. 

all ckims to New Mexico, on condition of ten millions of dollars to be 
paid by the government of the United States ; Fifth, That a more effi- 
cient law for the recovery of fugitive slaves should be passed ; and, 
Sixth, That the slave-trade should be prohibited in the District of 
Columbia. 

4. 'ilie number and variety of these several propositions, serve to 
show the extent of the difficulties to be overcome, and the different 
feelings and interests to be consulted. All these propositions, intro- 
duced as separate provisions, were finally adopted, but after a most ex- 
citing and protracted debate in Congress. The last of these bills 
passed September 18th, 1850. 

5. But before this final result had been obtained. President Taylor 
had breathed his last ; he died on the 9th of July, 1850, from over- 
exertion on the celebration of the 4th, He had spent the greater 
part of his life in the camp, and as he had been a successful soldier, so 
he was also a good man, and a true patriot. President Polk, his pre- 
decessor in office, had led the way to the tomb, having died at his 
residence in Nashville, June 15th, 1849. 

6. A few months previous to the death of President Taylor, John C- 
Calhoun, of South Carolina, who had filled with great distinction sev- 
eral high offices, had died at Washington — that is, on the 31st of March, 
1850. His last public services were rendered in seeking to effect the 
passage of the several bills of which we have just spoken. He was a 
man of great abilities, high integrity, and the utmost dignity as well as 
suavity of manners. He was for many years the acknowledged cham- 
pion of the Southern states, in respect to slavery, state rights, nullifi- | 
cation, etc. I 



4. What do the number and variety of these propositions prove? How did these pass | 

in Congress? When did the last pass ? 5. What of the death of President Taylor? His 
character? What of Ex-president Polk ? 6. What of Mr. Calhoun ? 



F J J. L M O R E S A D M J N 1 IS T R A T 1 O N , 



421 




<^~' 



PRESIDENT FILLMORE. 



CHAPTEE CCXII. 

Fillmore's Administration, from July 10th, 1850, to 
March 4th, 1853. — His Accession.- — Signing of the 
Omnibus Bills. — Lopez and the Cuban Fillihusters. — 
The Cheap- Postage Laws. — Laying the Corner- Stone 
of the Capitol Extension at Washington. — Kossuth in 
America. 

1. The day after the death of President Taylor, Mr. Fillmore, vice- 
president, took the oatli of office and entered upon the duties of the 
presidency. One of the first and most important duties which de- 
volved upon him was, to approve the several hills, which w^e have just 
described, relating to the admission of California, the organization of the 
territory of New Mexico, etc., and which, as we have said, received 
the general name of "TAe Compromise Measures o/*1850.' 



Chap. CCXII.— 1. Who became president on tlie death of TAyh)r? What was one of 
the first and most important of Fillmore's duties? 
C6 



422 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES! 

2. It appears that many persons in this country, especially in the 
southern portion, were in favor of the annexation of the large and 
rich Spanish island of Cuba to the United States, though it is well 
known that Spain is wliolly adverse to any such measure. So early as 
the commencement of Taylor's administration, some adventurous spirits^ 
popularly csiWedJiUilfusters, led by a Cuban exile named Lo'-pez, under- 
took to eifect this object. Six hundred men landed, May 19th, 1850, 
on the north part of the island at Car'-de-nas, and captured that place. 

8. Finding no countenance from the people of Cuba, however, they 
hastily re-embarked and escaped to Key West, in Florida. The fol- 
lowing year, Lopez, with four hundred and eighty men, left New 
Orleans, and again landed on the northern shores of Cuba; he was, 
however, attacked, defeated, and captured, and, with a number of his 
followers, was executed at Ha-van'-a. Ninety -five of the captives, who 
had been taken to Spain, were liberated by order of the queen, and ar- 
rived at New York March 18th, 1852. 

4. In the early part of the year 1851, Congress made important 
changes in the post-office laws. By the new system, the postage on 
prepaid letters, to all parts of the United States, was reduced to three 
cents, the prepayment being made by affixing stamps provided by the 
government. The result has been an immense facility of intercourse 
throughout the United States. 

5. On the 4th of July, 1851, the corner-stone of a vast extension of 
the Capitol, at Washington, was laid by the President of the United 
States, with appropriate ceremonies. On this occasion, Mr. Webster, 
the orator of the day, made the following extraordinary statement as 
to the progress of the United States since 1793 — that is, in fifty-seven 
years: 7/^1793. M issi. 

Number of the states belonging to the federal Union 15 31 

Members of Congress , , 135 295 

Population of the United States 8,9-:9,32S 23,267,499 

Population of the city of New York ,.. 33,121 515,507 

Revenue 5,720,624 43,774,848 

Imports $31,000,000 $178,138,314 

Exports ..$26,109,000 $151,898,720 

Tonnage of our vessels 320,764 3,535,454 

Extent of the territory of the United States in square miles 805,461 3,314,305 

Miles of railroad in operation none. 10,287 

" " in construction .• none. 10,092 

Lines of electric telegraph in miles . none. 15,000 

Number of post-offices 209 21,551 

Colleges 19 121 

2. What is the foelingof many persons in the United States as to the annexation of Cuba? 
What of fillibusters? What of Lopez? 3 What did Lopez and his men do after cap- 
turing Cardenas? What of another expedition the next year? 4. What of changes in the 
post-office laws in 1851 ? 5. What took place at Washington, July 4th, 1851 ? How many 
states tn the Union in 1793? In 1851 ? The teacher will put 8ii<:h other questions as he 
deems proper, from the table. 



DEATH OF HENRY CLAY. 423 

6. In December, 1851, Louis Kos'-suth, the ex-governor of Hungary, 
arrived in New York, by way of England. His eiforts in belialf of 
the liberty and independence of his native country had excited gen- 
eral admiration, and he was everywhere received with enthusiasm by 
the people. He made numerous addresses to the assembled multitudes, 
his remarkable eloquence being listened to with delight. 

7. Kossuth visited Washington, and was publicly received by Con- 
gress. As his avowed object was to promote the cause of Hungarian 
liberation from the tyranny of Austria, Chevalier Hulseman,* the am- 
bassador of the latter country, protested against this reception, and 
as his protest was not heeded, he left his post for a time, the duties 
of his office being confided to Mr. Belmont, of New York, 



CHAPTER CCXIII. 

Fillmore's Administration, Continued. — Death of Henry 
Clay. — Of Daniel Wehster. — Difficulty as to the North- 
ern Fisheries with Great Britain. — The Tripartite 
Treaty. — Everetfs Reply. 

1. On the 29th of June, 1852, Henry Clay, then a member of the 
Senate, died at Washington, being seventy-five years of age. He had 
been long in the public service, and had filled various high offices. For 
thirty years he had taken a prominent part in the affairs of our national 
government, and few measures of importance had been adopted by 
Congress upon which he did not exercise a commanding influence. 

2. Tall in his person, slender in form, and of light complexion; 
possessing a fine voice, a countenance of great animation, and a per- 
sonal action of remarkable ease and power of expression — he was one 
of the most effective debaters the country has ever produced. He 

6. What of Kossuth ? 7 What of the Austrian ambassador? 

Chap. CCXIII. — L What of Henry Clay? 2. Personal appearance and character of 
Mr. Clay? 

* In February, 1848, Louis Philippe, king of the French, was driven from his throne by 
a revolution, which resulted in the establishment of a republic, in France. A sympathetic 
spirit of revolt against the despotisms of Europe, spread rapidly on all sides. Many of 
the kings and princes wei"e forced to fly, or to grant liberal charters to their subjects. The 
Hungarians, who had long been subject to the emperor of Austria, made a gallant effort 
to throw off the yoke, and would doubtless have succeeded, had not Russia sent large 
armies to the aid of the Austrians, by means of which the Hungarians were finally de- 
feated. In this struggle Kossuth took a leading part. When the last of the Hungarian 
army capitulated, and all hope was gone, he fled into the adjacent territory of Turkey. 
He was kept as a prisoner for some time in that country, but was liberated in 1861, and 
came to America as above related. 



424 HISTORY OF the united states. 

was also ardent, dmmtless, and foil of hope, and, we may add, fnll of 
liigh ambition. lie was twice a candidate for the presidency, and 
twice defeated. Nevertheless, his death was mourned by an immense 
number of personal and attached friends, and indeed by a large portion 
of the people of the United States. 

3. A few months later, that is, on the 24th of October, Daniel Web- 
ster departed this life, at his residence in Marshtield, Massachusetts. 
He was a native of New Hampshire, and was seventy years of age. 
In person and mind, he presented a striking contrast to the great 
Kentucky orator. He was of a large, stout frame, and swarthy com- 
plexion; his movements were slow and ponderous. In his appear- 
ance, indeed, there was something singularly grand and imposing. 

4. His intellect was of similar largeness and power. In argument, 
he was almost invincible. The depth of his reasoning and the force 
of his logic, nmde him the acknowledged master of debate in the Sen- 
ate of the United States. His language was simple but chaste, and the 
speeches and documents he has left behind are not only among the 
finest models of composition, but they are a rich legacy of truth, 
knowledge, wisdom, and j)atriotism, to his countrymen. 

5. In the summer of 1852, the public mind was disturbed by diffi- 
culties with Great Britain as to the fisheries along the Atlantic coast 
of her American colonies. It was alleged that our fishermen habit- 
ually violated the treaty of 1818, which stipulated tluit they should 
not cast their nets or lines, in the British bays, nearer than three miles 
from the shores. An armed naval force was sent by the British 
government to enforce these views, and our government, deeming 
them to be inadmissible, dispatched two war-steamers to the same 
stations. The dispute was very threatening for a time, but in October, 
1853, concessions on both sides being made, the difficulty Avas happily 
adjusted. 

6. In consequence of the expeditions of Lopez against Cuba, and the 
evident disposition on the part of many persons in the United States 
to obtain possession of that island, the idea became common in Europe 
that our government might actually seek to realize this object, and, by 
l)ossessing Cuba, obtain conmiand of the entrance to the Gulf of Mexico. 
As a means of preventing such an event, France and England sought 
to engage the United States in a mutual obligation called the '-'Tripar- 
tite Treaty^"*^ which should bind us, as well as the other pai'ties, to 
resist and discountenance ah attempts to disturb Spain in the possession 
of Cuba. 



3. What of Daniel Webster? TIow did be compare M'ith Mr. Clay? What of his ap- 
l.earance? 4 What of his intellectual character? 5. What of difficulties with Great 
Britain as to the fiyhericii? 6. What of the Tripartite treaty? 



THE TRIPARTATE TREATY. 425 

7. On the 1st of December, 1852, Edward Everett, who had suc- 
ceeded Mr. Webster as secretary of state, by direction of the president, 
answered this proposition in a very able dispatch, in jvhich he declared 
that the position of Cuba rendered that island one of peculiar interest 
to this country ; and that, while we should not violate any of the 
laws of neutrality, we should act in respect to it without dictation 
from European powers. He also added, significantly, that, we should 
not see Cuba pass from the hands of Spain to any transatlantic govern- 
ment with indifference. 

8. Mr. Everett also took occasion, in this dispatch, to vindicate our 
country from the constant charges heaped upon us in Europe, of an 
aggressive spirit, in the acquisition of tei^ritory. He appealed to his- 
tory against such accusations, and showed, vrith impressive eloquence, 
the great work that had been done, for the civilized world, by the 
American nation, in having, within two centuries, converted three 
millions of square miles of wilderness, into a habitation fit for thirty 
millions of people ! 

7. What of Mr Everett's reply? 8. How did Mr. Everett vindicate our country? 



36* 



426 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STAT^IS. 




PRESIDENT PIERCE. 



CHAPTER CCXIV. 



Pierce's Administration, from March 4th, 1853, to 
March 4tii, 1857. — His Inauguration. — The Mesilla 
Valley Dispute. — Captain BinggolcP s Exploring Expe- 
dition. — Surveys for a Pacific Railroad. — The Arrest 
of Martin Koszta hy the Austrians. — The Jap>an Ex- 
pedition. — The N dyraska- Kansas Act, and Repeal of 
the Missoiori Compromise. — The Seizure of the Black 
War?'ior. — The Ostend Conference. — Mr. SotdS stopped 
at Calais hy the French Authorities. — The Crystal 
Palace Exhibition. 

1. In the election of 1852, Franklin Pierce, of New Hampshire, the 
Democratic candidate, was elected president, over General Winfield 

Chap. CCXIV. — 1. Who was elected president to succeed Mr. Fillmore? When was 
President Pierce inaugurated? Who was the Whig candidate opposed to President 
Pierce ? What of William R. King ? 



, , 



EXPLORING EXPEDITIOx\. 427 

Scott, tHe Whig candidate. . The inauguration took phice March 4th, 
1853. William R, King, of Alabama, was chosen as vice-president, 
but his health failed, and he never took the oath of oflBce. He died at 
his residence in Alabama, April 18th, 1853. 

2. Soon after Pierce's accession, a disi)ute arose with Mexico as to 
the boundary between New Mexico and the Mexican province of 
Chihuahua [c7ie-wa' -im], the fertile valley of Me-sil'-la lying between 
them being claimed by both parties. Santa Anna, who wa*now pres- 
ident of the Mexican Republic, took armed possession of the territory 
in dispute, and the disagreement threatened to end in national hostili- 
ties. The difficulty, however, was settled by negotiati(jn, and the Me- 
silla valley became the possession of the United States. 

3. In 1853, a second Exploring Expedition sailed from New York, 
under comm'and of Captain Ringgold, consisting of four armed vessels 
and a supply ship ; its objects being to examine that portion of the 
North Pacitic likely soon to become the track of our commerce be- 
tween California and China and Japan, as well as the whaling grounds 
in the regions of Behr'-ings' Straits and the Sea of 0-kotsk'. The expe- 
dition returned after an absence of about three years, having accom- 
plished the objects for which it was sent out. 

4. As a general impression began to prevail that a railroad from the 
valley of the Mississippi to our Pacific territories was a matter de- 
manding the attention of the general government, four expeditions 
were dispatched under the authority of Congress, in the summer of 
1853, for the purpose of surveying the several routes suitable for such 
a work. These surveys have been accomplished with great ability and 
success, and afford a vast amount of valuable knowledge in respect to 
the unsettled region between our Western states and the Pacific region. 

5. In July, 1853, an event occurred in the harbor of Smyrna, in the 
Mediterranean, which served to insure respect to our navy, among 
foreign nations. Martin Kosz'-ta, a Hungarian, who liad taken prelim- 
inary steps to be naturalized in the United States, being in Smyrna on 
business, was seized as a rebel and refugee by order of the Austrian 
consul-general, and taken on board an Austrian ship. Captain Ingra- 
ham, lying in port, with the United States sloop-of-war St. Louis, 
being appealed to, demanded the release of Koszta as an American 
citizen. 

6. On the refusal of the Austrian authorities to comply with his re- 
quest. Captain Ingraham cleared his vessel for action, and threatened 
to fire upon the brig, if the prisoner was not speedily released. Thus 

2. Where is the Mesilla Valley ? What dispute arose as to this valley ? How Avas the 
dispnte settled? 8. What of a second exploring expedition ? 4. What of surveys for a 
Pacific railroad ? 5. What of Martin Koszta ? 



428 



HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES, 







EXPliDITION TO JAPAN, IN THE BAY OF JEDDO. 



cautioned, the Austrians yielded ; Koszta was placed in custody of the 
French consul to await the decision of the two governments of Austria 
and the United States. He was finally released, and returned to this coun- 
try. Austria remonstrated against the course adopted by Captain In- 
graham, but his conduct was applauded both in Europe and America. 
7. In the summer of 1853, an expedition fitted out by our govern- 
ment to proceed to Japan, and form a commercial treaty with that 
empire, consisting of seven ships of war, and placed under the com- 
mand of Commodore Perry, brother of the hero of Lake Erie, arrived at 
its destination — that is. in the bay of Jeddo. The commodore communi- 
cated his wishes through the Japanese authorities to the emperor, and 
after some delay, a treaty was entered into with the government, by which 
several ports were opened to our commerce,* A new and important era 
was thus begun in the history of this remote but populous island-empire. 



6. "What did Captain Ingraham do after the Austrians refused to release Koszta? What 
was the result? 7. "What of the expedition to Japan ? 

* The empire of Japan, embracing several islands on the western coasts of Asia, is sup 
posed to contain a population of from twenty to thirty millions. In manners and cus- 
toms, those people resemble the Chinese ; like the Chinese, they have generally excluded 
foreigners from their territory, though they have granted some exclusive privileges to the 
Dutch. Since this treaty made by Commodore Perry, some of the European nations have 
formed commercial treaties with that country 



THE OS TEN I) CONEEEENCE. 429 

8. In January, 1854, the Senate Committee on Territories introduced 
what has since become famous as the Kansas- Nebrasha Bill^ makinjj: 
provision for erecting the vast regions of Nebraska and Kansas into 
territories, and containing a provision that the inhabitants should de- 
cide for themselves whetlier to admit the institution of slavery or not. 
This measure was understood to proceed from Senator Douglas of 
Illinois. 

9. It proposed, in addition to its other provisions, a repeal of the 
Missouri Compromise, wdiich had existed since 1820, and therefore 
caused a deep feeling of opposition, particularly at the North. The 
bill, however, was passed after an exciting debate, and became a lav/ 
on the 31st of May. 

10. In February of this year, 1854, the American steamship Black 
Warrior was seized in the harbor of Ha-van'-a, under the pretence that 
she had evaded or violated some revenue law, and both ship and cargo 
were declared confiscated. For a time this act was made the occasion 
of exciting a feeling in the United States in behalf of the acquisition 
of Cuba, even by force. 

11. Under the influence of this, a conference of some of the American 
ministers in Europe, including Mr. Buchanan at London, Mr. Mason at 
Paris, and Mr. Soule at Madrid, with others, was held in October, 1854, 
at Ostend, in Belgium, and a circular, strongly recommending the ac- 
(piisition of Cuba, was adopted. This measure attracted great atten- 
tion, and caused much remark throughout Europe. The difficulty of 
the Black Warrior was soon after satisfactorily adjusted by the Spanish 
government. 

12. About this time — October 24th — Mr. Soule, being on his way 
from London to Paris, was stopped at Calais by order of the French 
government. Mr. Soule was a Frenchman by birth, and many years 
before had been exiled from France, though he had been permitted to 
return. He was now an object of suspicion to tlie jealous government 
of Louis Napoleon. He was finally permitted to pass through France 
on his w'ay to Mad-rid', the seat of his mission, on condition that he 
should not remain in the country. 

13. In July, 1853, an exhibition of the various products of industry 
and art, such as manufactures of all kinds, painting, sculpture, etc., 
was opened in the Crystal Palace at New York, with appropriate 
ceremonies, and in presence of an immense concourse of people. The 

8. What act was introduced into the Senate in January, 1S54? 9. What compromise did 
this bill destroy ? What was the immediate effect of its passage ? 10. What occurred as 
to the Black Warrior in February, 1854? 11. What coaference took place at Ostend in 
October, 1S54 ? 12. What of Mr. Soule's being stopped at Calais ? 13. What of the Crys- 
tal Palace at New York ? 



4:30 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 



M 




BURNING OF THE NEW YORK CRYSTAL PALACE. 

various articles were contributed from every part of the United States 
and almost every country in Europe. For several months this beautiful 
edifice was thronged with delighted spectators.* 

14. After being used for several exhibitions, this building was to- 
tally destroyed by fire, October, 1858, it being at the time occupied for 
the Fair of the American Institute. 



* The idea of the Crystal Palace at New York was suggested by that in London, which 
was opened for the " World's Fair" in that metropolis in 1851. The London edifice was 
built of iron and glass, and, after being used for the object of its erection, it was removed 
to Sydenham, near London, where it is used for a perpetual exhibition of curiosities, and 
is one of the real wonders of the world. The New York building was externally of iron 
and glass, and was one of the most beautiful structures ever erected. 



WALKER THE FILLIBUSTER- 431 



CHAPTEE CCXY. 

Piekce's Administration, Continued. — The Beciprocity 
Treaty with Canada. — Walker's Invasion of Nicaragua. 
— British Enlistments in the United States. — The Amer- 
ican Expeditions in Search of Sir John Franklin. — 
Finding of the British Ship Besolute^ and her Presen- 
tation to the British Government. 

1. In the summer of 1854, the dispnted boundary lines between the. 
United States and Mexico were settled, and about the same time an 
agreement, called the Reciprocity Treaty^ was made between Great 
Britain and the United States, by which the commerce between Canada 
and our country was made nearly free. 

2. In the summer of 1855, William Walker, a citizen of the United 
States, who had become somewhat noted for an abortive attempt to 
acquire a portion of Mexico, invaded Ni-ca-ra'-gua* with a small band 
of adventurers from California. After many petty struggles and skir- 
mishes, he seemed to have obtained possession of the country, the in- 
habitants of which were in a disturbed state; but the people of 
Cos-ta Ri'-ca joined the Nicaraguans, and Walker was driven from the 
country. 

8. He, however, collected a band of followers in the South, and elud- 
ing the authorities, embarked November 11th, 1857, at Mobile. He 
landed at Pu-er'-ta Are'-nas, Nicaragua, with four hundred men, but on 
the 8th December they surrendered to Captain Paulding, of the United 
States steamer Wabash, and were taken to the United States. 

4. In 1855, the Eastern war, which involved Russia on the one side, 
aijd Turkey, France, and Great Britain on the other, even somewhat 
disturbed the peaceful relations of the United States with the latter 

Chap. CCXV. — 1. What disputed boundary was settled in the summer of 1854? What 
of the Reciprocity Treaty ? 2 What of Captain William Walker's invasion of Nicaragua ? 
8. W'bat of his second invasion ? 4. What of the Eastern war ?, What did the agents of 
Great Britain attempt to do in the United States, in 1S55; 

* Nicaragua is one of the republics situated on the isthmus between North and South 
America, which formed the confederation of Guatemala or Central America This con- 
sisted of the following states: Coftta Rica, Mcaragua, Ilondtiras, San Salvador, and 
Guatemala. They are now independent republics, but are of small extent, and the 
population of all is only reckoned at two millions. Nicaragua has three hundred and 
fifty thousand Inhabitants. Its situation, however, renders it Important, as it lies in the 
pathway of the commerce between the Atlantic and Pacific 



432 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

country. Great Britain was greatly in want of soldiers, and her pub- 
lic agents, covertly, enlisted soldiers within the limits of the United 
States, in violation of the existing neutrality laws. 

5. It appeared that the British minister at Washington and some 
.of the British consuls in our larger cities, had either openly or secretly 
favored these proceedings. As Great Britain declined recalling her 
minister, though invited to do so, he and the consuls were dismissed 
by our government. Some irritation followed in England, but the 
propriety of our course was obvious, and the cloud passed by. 




^-^ 



KANE'S SHIP IN THE ARCTIC REGIONS. 



6. On the 13th September, 1855, Lieutenant Hartstene, who, with the 
Arctic and Return, had been dispatched in search of Dr. Kane and his 
companions, found them at the Isle of Dis'-co, in Greenland. They had 
abandoned their vessel, the Advance, in the ice, May 17th, and arrived 
at Upper Navick, where they had shipped for Denmark, for the purpose 
of returning home. Fortunately meeting with Lieutenant Hartstene, 
they were brought to N"ew York, where they arrived October 11th. 

7. This second American expedition, dispatched from America for 

5. What was done by our government in respect to the British minister and consuls ? 
6. Whit of Lieutenant Hartstene ? What of Dr. Kane and his companions ? 



S E A K C H FiMl SI K J C) H N F R A N K 1. 1 N 4SH 




Dli. KANE IN THE ARCTIC KEGIONS. 



the discovery of Sir John Franklin and his companions,* thus proved 
abortive, but the party discovered an open sea encircling the North 
Pole, thus adding a curious and surprising fact to our somewhat 
limited knowledge in respect to this gloomy and inhospitable portion 



7 What of this second American expedition for the discovery of Sir John Franlclin ? 
What discovery was made by Captain McClure ? 

* For nearly three hundred years, it has been a great object to determine whether there 
is what is called a North-xcest Pa.smge to the Pacific^ that is, a passage for vessels through 
the Arctic seas from Baffin's Bay to Behring's Straits. "Witliin the last thirty years. 
Great Britain has dispatched numerous ships to settle this question, and from this sonrce 
we have the important discoveries of Parry, Ross, and others. In May, 1S45, Sir Johii 
Franlvlin, who had distinguished himself in explorations among the Arctic seas, with tw(.< 
ships, the Erebus and Terror, and one hundred and thirtj'-eight men, departed for a voy- 
age of discovery in those regions. They proceeded up Baffin's Bay, but for several year,'! 
nothing was heard of them. The whole civilized world seemed interested in the fate ot 
these adventurers As the expeditions sent out from Great Britain had proved unsuc 
cessful, Mr, Henry Grinnell, of New York, equipped two vessels, the Advance and 
Eescue, at his own expense. They departed from New York in May, 1850. These having! 
returned, October, 1851, without success, another expedition was dispatched by Mr. Grin- 
nell, aided by the government, consisting of the brig Advance, under the command of 
Dr E. K. Kane, of Philadelphia, the surgeon and naturalist of the first expedition. Afte? 
his return, Dr Kane published an interesting account of his adventures. Unhappily his 
constitution had been undermined by the hardships he had encountered, and he died at 
Cuba, February 16th, 1857. His death caused a general mourning thronghout the United 
States. 

The actual fate of Sir John Franklin and his men has recently been ascertained, as we 
have &ra.-,ed !« tV.-.r account of the Polar Regions. (See p 455.") 

37 



434 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

of the globe. It may be added that, previous to this time — October, 
1853 — Captain McChire, of the British ship Investigator, had proved 
that a continuous sea extends from Baffin's Bay to Behring's Straits. 
It is, however, of no practical use, as it is at all times encumbered 
with ice. 

8. Several expeditions had been dispatched from England, in search 
of Sir John Franklin. In one of them, the ship Kesolute was abandon- 
ed in the Arctic seas. On the 23d December, 1855, she was found 
floating in the Atlantic, and brouglit safely into the harbor of New 
London by Captain Buddington. She was afterward purchased by our 
government, refitted, and sent, December, 185G, as a present to the 
British government, under command of Lieutenant Hartstene. The 
present was very graciously accepted, and the lieutenant and his men 
received the most hearty and gratifying welcome. 

8. What of the ship Resolute ? What of Lieutenant Hartstene ? 



BUCHANAN'S ADMINISTRATION 



435 




PRESIDENT BUCHANAN. 



CHAPTER CCXVl. 



Buchanan's Administkation, beginning Makch 4th, 1857. 
— The Troubles in Kansas. — The Lecorripton Constitiv- 
tion in Congress. — Tts Rejection hy the People of Kansas^ 
and a New Constitution adopted. 

1. In the election for a successor to President Pierce, James Bu- 
chanan,* of Pennsylvania, the Democratic candidate, was chosen, and 
duly inaugurated March 4th, 1857. John 0. Breckenridge, of Ken- 
tucky, was elected vice-president. 



Chap. CCXVI. — 1. "Who were inaugurated president and vice-president March 4th, 
1857? 

* In this election of November, 1S56, there were three parties in the field. The first 
was that of the Democrats^ whose C(»nvention had met at Cincinnati, and adopted a 
platform regarded as embracing the established creed of the party. The second was the 
B&puhlican party, whose main principle was opposition to the extension of slavery in 
the Territories Their candidate was John C. Fremont, a native of North Carolina, and 
conspicuous for his explorations and discoveries, and hi^ public services in Califor 



436 HISTOKY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

2. One of the first and most important subjects that occupied tlie 
attention * of the new administration was the state of things in Kan- 
sas. We have ah-eacly noticed the excitement which existed in this 
territory ; but it is necessary to go back, and give a more particular 
narrative of events connected with this subject. 

3. The avowed doctrine of the Kansas-Nebraska act, passed in 1854, 
was that of '■'' Pojndar Scyoereignty^'''' or the right of the people of a 
territory to decide for themselves whether to admit slavery or not, 
when they ask admission into the Union. In view of this, a movement 
was made at the North, and especially in Massachusetts, by X'l'ivate 
associations, to people tlie territory of Kansas with emigrants opposed 
to the establishment of slavery there ; a counteracting effort was 
made in the South to people the territory with inhabitants in favor of 
slavery.* 

4. The result was such as might have been foreseen. A great mass 
of emigrants of ojjposite views and feelings, ci'owded into the territory, 
and were soon in a state of angry contention. Scenes of violence 
took place, and in 1855 and 1856 there was actual civil war, in which 

nia (luring the Mexican war. Thn electoral votes of all the free states, excepting Penn- 
sylvania, New Jersey, Indiana, Illinois, and California, were cast for Fremont. The third 
party was that of the ^7/2.eHccms, their leading principle being that '•'• Americans sliall 
govetm AmeHca.''' Their candidate was Millard Filluiorc; they, however, carried only 
the state of MarylantL 

* In order to imderstand the extent and bearing of the question of slavery in the United 
States, it is necessary to consider a few historical facts. The practice of holding human 
beings as slaves, appears to have existed from the earliest ages. It existed among the 
ancient Jews, even before the time of Moses, and in the days of the patriarchs ', it ex- 
isted among the Egyptians, Greeks, and Eomans ; it exists at the present day all over 
Asia. In point of fact, a great part of mankind, from the beginning of history down tu 
the Middle Ages, were slaves. 

In ancient times, all prisoners of war were reduced to slavery, being generally dis- 
tributed as spoils among the officers and men of the conquering armies. When America 
Avas discovered, this practice was still in vogue, and there was no hesitation on the part 
of Europeans in making slaves of the Indians whom they captured. Even in New Eng- 
land, in Virginia, and the other English colonies, Indians taken in war were sold as slaves. 
The reumant of the Pequods in Connecticut, the Indians taken by Colonel Waldron in 
New Hampshire, and the childi'en of Philip, the famous Khode Island chief, were all en- 
slaved, and sold as property. 

The first negro slaves brought to the English colonies in America, twenty in number^ 
were landed from a Dutch vessel at Jamestown about the year 1G19. From this time 
African slaves were imported into most of the colonies, and they became more or less 
numerous in all. At the time of the Eevolution, they existed in all the thirteen states* 
but about this period some of llie Northern states abolished slavery, and this example 
was followed by them all. Slavery now exists iu the fifteen Southern and South-west* 
ern states. 

2. What was one of the first aixl most important matters claiming Mr. Buchanan's at- 
tention? 3. What was the avowed principle of the Kansas-Nebniska act? What wan 
done in the North to get anti-slavery settlers into Kansas ? What was dtine at the South ' 
4. What were the consequences of this strife in Kansas? 






THE LECUMPTON C O N ST 1 T IJ T 1 O K . -ioT 

several lives were lost, property was destroyed, and settlements broken 
up.* After the presidential contest of the latter year, the excitement 
in some degree subsided ; but now a new difficulty arose. 

5. A convention, assembled at Le-comp'-ton, September 7th, 1857, 
for the purpose of preparing a state constitution, drafted such an in- 
strument, incorporating, however, various provisions establishing 
slavery as the fundamental law^ of Kansas. This was at variance with 
tlie views of the people, and at the election of January 4th, 1858, a 
majority of somewhat more than ten thousand votes was cast 'against 
it. Mr. Buchanan, however, urged, as a means of putting an end to 
agitation, that Kansas should be admitted, under this constitution. 

6. Congress refused to concur in this measure : a bill,t however, w^as 
introduced and passed, authorizing the admission of Kansas upon cer- 
tain conditions. These were not acceptable to the people, and Kansas 
remained a territory until 1861. 

5. What of the Lecompton Constitution? "What of Mr. Buchanan? 6. WTiat of Con- 
gress ? What of the people of Kansas ? 

* The inhabitants who suffered these losses claim indemnity of the general government, 
estimating their amount at two millions of dollars. 

t This measure is called the '■'English Bill,'" from the naasc of the member of Congresa 
who proposed it, Mr English, of Indiana- 



37^ 



4:38 



{U8T0RY0F THE UNITED STATElv. 




ft.U.i' LAKli OITV, UTAH. 

CHAPTEK CCXYII. 

Buchanan's Administration, Continued. — Difficulty with 
the Mormons. 

1. Another subject which early demanded the attention of Mr. 
Buchanan, was the condition of the Mormons* in Utah. This strange 
sect, whom we have ah-eady mentioned as causing some disturbance 
in Illinois, moved to the west in 1848, and established themselves in 



Chap. CCXVII.— 1. WHiat other subject demanded the early attention of Mr. Buchan- 
an? What of the Mormons? 

* The sect of Mormons was founded in 1827, by an artful and unprincipled man by the 
name of Joe Smith, a native of Central New York. He pretended that he had received 
A special revelation from Heaven, imparting to him the knowledge of a book which had 
lain for many centuries in a hill near the town of Palmyra. This he obtained, as he said, 
and found its leaves to be of gold, and inscribed with mystic writings, giving an account of 
the ancient people of America, with a new irospcl for mankind. This he pretended to 
translate, and also, from time to time, he pretended to have divine revelations. From 
these sources the sect has derived i\\Q Book of Mormon, v;Yi\c\\ is their Bible. Smith 
found dupes and coadjutor.s, and from this infamous fraud has arisen, in the si)ace of thirty 
years, the now numerous sect of Mormons. 

Joe Smith and his brother Hiram Avere shot while in prison at the Mormon settle- 
ni£nt of Nauvoo, in Illinois, in 1S15, andthe sect were forced into the western wilder- 
twss. They took up their residence at Utah as above stated, Brighanj Young becoming 
their leader. He is called the Lion of the Lord by the Mormons, and it is said has sev- 
enty wives. Other Mormons have from live to twenty wives. 



DIFFICULTY WITH THE MORMONS. 4o9 

tlie vicinity of the Great Salt Lake, amid tlie niouutains which lie be- 
tween the Western states and the region of the Pacific. 

2. Notwithstanding the absurdity of the religions pretences on which 
this sect is founded, and their gross and immoral practice of polygamy, 
they have rapidly increased in numbers, and active missionaries are 
found propagating the faith in nearly every country of Europe. The 
whole number of the community is said to exceed two hundred thou- 
sand. In Utah there is probably a population of one hundred thousand, 
almost exclusively Mormons. 

3. Near the Great Salt Lake they have commenced a city on an 
extensive plan, with sumptuous public buildings, and they have also 
covered large tracts of their territory with well-cultivated farms- 
Being on the main route of travel from the Western states to Cali- 
fornia, they derive great profit from the emigrants. Their govern- 
ment is in the hands of a few persons, and a man by the name of 
Brigham Young is now (1864) and for several years has been, their 
prt)phet, priest, and king. 

4. In 1850 Utah was organized as a territory by the United States 
government, and Brigham Young was appointed governor by President 
Fillmore, and his appointment was subsequently renewed by President 
Pierce. In 1857, however, charges of violence toward the officers of 
the federal government in Utah were brought against the Mormons, 
and in June of this year, General Harney was appointed to the com- 
mand of a large body of troops who were to accompany Mr. Gumming, 
a new governor appointed in Brigham Young's place by Mr. Buchanan, 
to the scene of his duties. 

5. Subsequently the command of the forces was given to Colonel 
Johnston, who arrived at Fort Bridger, about one hundred miles from 
Salt Lake City, in September, 1857, and there went into winter-quar- 
ters. In December the leading Mormons were indicted for high treason 
by a United States court sitting at Cam}) Scott, the damages for the 
destruction of provision trains belonging to the United States army 
being laid at two millions of dollars. 

0. These formidable movements on the part of the government were, 
however, destined to a speedy and pacific issue. A gentleman of 
Philadelphia, by the name of Kane, well acquainted with the Mormons, 
was privately dispatched to Salt Lake City, and through his representa- 

2. What of the extension of the sect of Mormons? 3. What city have the Mormons 
commenced? What of their farms ? On what great route of travel are they ? What of 
their government? Who is their leader? 4. When was Utah organized as a territory ? 
Who did Fillmore appoint as governor? What charge was made against the Mormons 
in 1S57? What force was ordered to march against the Mormons? 5. What did the 
United States forces under Colonel Johnston do? What was done in December? 6. 
"What was done by Mr. Kane ? How did the war against the Mormons end ? 



44:0 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

tionsthe whole difliculty was speedily adjusted. The gates of Salt Lake 
City were thrown open, and Governor Gumming and his train of offi- 
cers were invited to enter. The whole affair was terminated by the 
i:)roclamation of the president granting a free pardon "to all for the 
seditions and treasons by them committed." 



CHAPTER CCXVIII. 

Buchanan's Administration, Continued. — The Panic of 

1857. — Purchase of Mount Vernon hy the Mount Ver- 
non Ladies^ Association. — Death of Thomas II. Benton. 

1. In the autumn of 1857, a sudden money panic overspread the 
country, and eventually extended in some degree to the principal com- 
mercial cities of Europe. On the 26th of September, the banks of 
Philadelphia suspended specie payments; in this they were followed 
by the New York banks, October 13th, and by the Boston banks on 
the 14th.* 

2. Various causes were assigned for this extraordinary crisis, among 
which the immense investments of capital in western land speculations, 
and the great depreciation of railroad stocks, were prominent. The 
storm seemed to fall with particular violence upon the West, while it 
was scarcely felt in tlie Southern states. The banks of New York re- 
sumed specie payments on the 12th of December, those of Boston on the 
14th, and those of Philadelphia, in April, 1858. In other parts, there 
was a gradual recovery, but a general state of depression in business 
continued for nearly two years, 

3. On the 6th of April, 1858, John A. Washington, proprietor of 
Mount Vernon, the residence of Washington, signed a contract to sell 
that beautiful place to the " Mount Vernon Ladies' Association" for the 
sum of two hundred thousand dollars. Since that time, this associa- 
tion, by its patient and patriotic labors, liave collected the requisite 
sum, and they are now, or speedily will be, proprietors of the Home 
and Grave of the "Father of his Gountry." This is to be held in per- 
petuity as a national monument, sacred to the memory of him who was 
"first in war, and first in peace, first in the hearts of his counti-ymen." 

4. On the 10th of April, 1858, Thomas H. Benton died at Washing- 



Chap. CCXVIII.— 1. What of a panic In 1S57? 2. What causes were assigned for tliis 
panic? What else can you say of the panic? 8. What can you say of Mount Vernon ? 

* The Annual Statement of the Ne-.v York Comuiorcial Agency, January, 1S5S, assert- 
ed that from December 6th, 1856, to December 6th, 1S57, there occurred in tlie United 
States, 5,123 failures, involving liabilities to the enormous amount of $291,750,000. 



TUOMAS H. BENTON 



411 




THOMAS H. BENTON. 

ton, aged seventy-six years. He was a man of great industry and vast 
memory, and, having been nearly his whole life devoted to public 
affairs, was one of the ablest of the distinguished men of his time. 
He was a native of North Carolina, but settled early in Missouri ; and 
being chosen senator of the United States, upon the organization of 
tliat state in 1820, he continued to fill the office till 1851. 

5. During this long period of about thirty years, he was an active 
member of the Senate, and, by his careful researches and great learn- 
ing, was in many respects, useful and influential. During the latter 
part of his life, he devoted himself to literary pursuits, and published 
two able and important works— a View of Public Affairs during his 
thirty years' membership of the Senate, and an Abridgment of the 
Debates in Congress. The last sheet of this work was finislied a short 
time before his death. 



What of Thomas H. Benton ? 



19^ 



4,4:2 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 



\ 



1^- 



^i S. 



J 




LAYING THE ATLANTIC CABLE. 



CHAPTER CCXIX. 

Buchanan's Administration, Continued. — Public Im- 
prove7nc7its. — Canals^ Steam- Navigation^ Railroads. — 
Tlie Stibinwrine Telegraph. 

1. "We have already had occasion to mention the Electric Telegraph, 
certainly the most startling invention of modern times. Canals* had 
done much to facilitate the transportation of merchJindise and agricul- 
tural products ; steamboats had made rivers the familiar pathways of 
commerce and travel ; railroads had given to man almost the speed 
of wings, as well for himself as his goods. 

2. But a new instrument for the transmission of thought, swift as 
lightning itself, was now added to these wonderful gifts. Lines of 
Electric Telegraph* were rapidly spread over this country, as well as 
the countries of Europe ; by means of these, individuals thousands of 



Chap. CCXIX.— 1. "What of canals? The New York and Erie Canal ? What of steam- 
boats? What of railroads ? 

* Previous to the invention of railroads, canals were extensively used for the transport- 
ation of merchandise. Great Britain and Holland were covered with a network of canals- 
The Erie Canal, in New York, extending from Albany to Lake Erie, and connecting the 
great lakes with the ocean by internal navigation, was finished in 1825. It was the most 
important work of the kind on this continent, and perhaps in the world, and was carried 
through chiefly by the untiring and energetic exertions of Dewitt Clinton, an able and 
patriotic statesman of the state of New York. Many other canals were established in 
dilforeut parts of the United States about the same period. 



THE ATLANTIC CABLE. 443 

miles apart, can hold coramiinicatioii in the space of a few brief hours. 
In the course of a single day, a person can send a dozen messages from 
New York to Boston or Philadelphia, to a single correspondent, and 
get back an answer to each. In two or three hours, he can communicate 
with New Orleans and have his reply. 

3. But now a new wonder was realized, the Submarine Telegraph. 
The electric wires were laid across broad rivers and even arms of the 
sea, and the subtle intelligence passed successfully through their 
depths! At last the idea of connecting Europe with America, by 
means of electric wires laid in the Atlantic, was suggested. Surveys 
of this ocean were made, and while its various irregularities were duly 
noted, the average depth was ascertained to be about two miles. 

4. In the summer of 1857, an attempt was made to realize the object 
in view, under the auspices of a Company formed in this country and 
England, with the aid of vessels furnished by the governments of the 
United States and Great Britain. This proved unsuccessful; but a 
second attempt was more fortunate. The two vessels, the Niagara, an 
American war-steamer, and the Ag-a-mem'-non, a British war-stea- 
mer, meeting in mid-ocean, began paying out the electric cable on the 
29th of July, 1858. 

6. The latter vessel proceeded eastward, and entered Va-len'-tia Bay, 
on the west coast of Ireland, August 5th, 1858, having successfully 
laid its portion of the cable. On the 5th of August, the Niagara en- 
tered Trinity Bay, in Newfoundland, having had similar good fortune. 
Thus the cable was actually laid, and on the 16th of August, a mes- 
sage from Queen Victoria was received through the wires, addressed 
to President Buchanan, Immediately after, various messages were ex- 
changed between the two continents. This amazing achievement was 
celebrated with great ceremony on the 1st of September, in New 
York, and also with more or less rejoicing in other cities of the United 
States. 

2. What of the electric telegraph? Who was the inventor of it? 3. What of the 
submarine telegraph crossing rivers and arms of the sea? What of crossing the Atlantic? 

4. What attempt was made in 1857 ? What was the success of this first attempt? What 
of the second attempt? What was done by the two vessels, Agamemnon and Niagara? 

5. What of the Agamemnon ? The Niagara ? What was the result of laying the electric 
cable ? What celebration was had ? 

* We are indebted for the Electric Telegi-aph to the ingenious discoveries and inven- 
tions of Samuel F. B. Morse, of New York. The first message was sent over the wires 
from Washington to Baltimore in 1844, and consisted of the.following line: "•What hath 
God wrought /" Soon after — that is, in the spring of 1844— the news of the nomination 
of James K. Polk by the Democratic convention at Baltimore, was dispatched, this being 
the first public use of the telegraph. Lines of telegraph, measuring together twenty thou- 
sand miles in length, are established in this country. Great Britain, France, Germany, 
etc., etc., are netted with telegraphic lines. The English Channel, the Adriatic Sea, the 
Eed Sea, the Black Sea, the Mediterranean, and other abroad waters are also crossed by 
telegraphic wires. 



444 ri r s T o ii y of the united states. 

6. The hopes that had been thus excited, have not, however, been 
realized, for, after a short time, the wires ceased to work, but the 
feasibility of communication across the Atlantic was supposed to have 
been demonstrated, and means were taken for another effort to accom- 
plish the desired object. 



CHAPTER CCXX. 

Buchanan's Administration, Continued. — Minnesota 
admitted as a State. — History of Oregon. — Its admis- 
sion into the Union. — The San Juan Difficidty. 

1. On the 11th of May, 1858, Minnesota was admitted as a state 
into the Union. It lies immediately north of Iowa, and extends to 
the Canadian boundary. On the north-east it touches Lake Superior; 
to the west it is bounded by the large tract inhabited only by Indians, 
called Dacotah. 

2. This vast region comprises the head- waters of the Mississippi, the 
greatest river of the earth ; it abounds in rivers and lakes, teeming 
with fish ; its soil is prolific, and its forests are among the finest in the 
world. Its name is derived from Min-7ii-so' -tah, the Indian title of St. 
Peter's River, and signifying tu7'hid-watcr. 

3. This territory belonged to the French by priority of discovery; 
at a very early period it was traversed by their missionaries, traders, 
and soldiers. It came to Great Britain by the treaty of 1763, and to 
the United States by the treaty of 1T83. It received a territorial gov- 
ernment in 1849, the capital being fixed at Saint Paul. It has still in 
its northern regions, considerable bands of Chippewa Indians. 

4. During the Congressional session of 1858-9, Oregon was also ad- 
mitted as a state. It originally included the territory of Washington ; 
these two comprised the extensive tract lying between the British 
possessions on the north, and California on the south ; the Rocky 
Mountains on the east, and the Pacific on the west. 

5. The coasts of this region were discovered by the Spaniards in the 
sixteenth century, but in 1792, Captain Gray, of Boston, discovered 
and entered the Columbia River, and thus the United States acquired 
a right of sovereignty over the territory. This claim was strengthened 
by the fact that in 1804-5-0, Lewis and Chirk, disi)atched by our gov- 

6. What of the hopes thus excited ? 

CiiAi'TKii COXX. — I. When was Nfinnesota admitted as a state? 2, 3. History of MiniiO' 
Botu. ;. When was Oregon admitted us a state '? What did it ()ri'„Mn;dly ctJniprise ? 



MINNESOTA AND OREGON. 445 

eninieiit, explored the country from the Missouri to the Columbia, 
and spent in that region a part of the winter of 1805-6. 

6. The British, however, laid claim to the northern portion of the 
territory, and a threatening dispute consequently arose between the 
government of that country and our own. Tliis was adjusted by a 
treaty in 1846, adopting the boundary line of 49° north latitude, as 
elsewhere stated. 

7. Both the state of Oregon and the territory of Washington, con- 
tain many tribes of Indians ; in the former are the Flat'-heads, Fend 
Oreilles [pond-oray\ Spo'-hanes and Sho' -sliones : in the latter are the 
ISFez Perces [na-jjursa] Cay-u'-ses^ Bon'-nachs^ etc. These for the most 
part are mere savages, though the missionaries have exercised a civi- 
lizing influence upon a portion of them. The rivers of this region 
abound in fish, and in the spring and summer, the Indians, with their 
horses and dogs, feed and fatten upon them. 

8. The furs of this region, those of the beaver, badger, bear, fisher- 
fox, lynx, martin, mink, muskrat, etc., have long been an impor- 
tant source of revenue. Trading posts were early established by Amer- 
ican fur companies in this quarter, that of As-to'-ri-a being founded 
in 1810, under the auspices of the late John Jacob Astor, of New York. 
The British fur companies also had establishments here ; these, with 
the American companies, both occupied the disputed boundary, until 
the treaty of 1846. 

9. At the present time, though the fur trade is still important, 
agriculture is the chief object of pursuit. CormcaUis, on the left bank 
of the Wil-la-mette' River, one hundred and twenty miles from its 
mouth, is the political capital of Oregon, and O-lym'-pi-a, at the head 
Pu'-get's sound, that of the territory of Washington, 

10. The neighboring British settlements upon Van-cou'-ver\s Island; 
and in the vicinity of Fra'-ser's River, where gold mines have recently 
been discovered, are rapidly increasing, and already afibrd considerable 
sources of commerce with the American settlements we are describing. 

11. In the fair of the year 1859', a dispute arose between the Ameri- 
can and British governments as to the right of sovereignty over the 
large island of San Ju-'-an, lying in the strait or river, which divides 
Vancouver's Island from the American territory. The American 
commander, General Harney, took possession of it, against which act 
the British governor, Douglass, protested. General Scott was dis- 
patched by our government to the scene of the dispute, and speedily 
settled the quarrel. 

5. What were the grounds of our claim to this region ? 6. What did the British claim ? 
7. Wliat of the Indians in Oregon and Washington? 8. What of furs in these regions- 
Fur companies? 9. Onpitals of Oregon and Washington? 10. Wluit of flie British torri 
tories contiguous to Was'-Aiaf/ton Toi-riti.iv v 1 1 Wh;it of the island of San Juan '' 



446 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 



CHAPTER CCXXI. 

BucHANAj^'s Administkation, CONCLUDED. — The Doctrine 
of the Right of Secession. — The Presidential Election 
of 1860. — Its Ilesult and Consequences. 

1. We come now to the most important period in the history of 
tlie United States — that of the attempted secession of certain of the 
Southern or slave states, and the consequent war between them and 
the government — a war which lasted four years, and in which hun- 
dreds of thousands of lives were lost. This terrible event arose from 
the following state of facts. 

2. Certain of the leading men of the South, large owners of land 
and of slaves, had long been opposed to the principles of free govern- 
ment ; they considered that universal suffrage was injurious in its 
effects — not to the masses of the Southern people, but to the few 
thousands of their own class, who were prevented by it from govern- 
ing the country as they desired. They wished to set up a govern- 
ment in which they — the rich — would be princes and rulers, and the 
common people would be their servants, without the right to vote, 
and with none of the privileges of a republican government. 

8. They had made one attempt in this direction, in 1832, when the 
state of South Carolina attempted to nullify, or disobey, a law of the 
United States ; this, as we have seen, was promptly put down by 
President Jackson. From that time to the close of Mr. Buchanan's 
term, the Southern leaders had been preparing for a second and more 
desperate attempt. They taught their people to despise and hate the 
people of the North, and, with wonderful cunning, made them be- 
lieve that slavery — in every way injurious to them — was absolutely 
necessary to their prosperity. 

4. They were convinced, however, that it would not do to attempt 
a revolution : they felt that it was necessary to have, or to seem to 
have, the Constitution on their side. The doctrine of the right of 
secession had therefore been invented; and the people were taught 
to believe that any state could withdraw from the union of states at 



CnAP. CCXXI. — 1. What of the attempted secessiou of certain states? 2. What of the 
view3 of leading men of the South ? What did they desire? 3. What had they done in 
1832? What had they taught the people to do? 4. State the theory of the right of se- 
cession. 



THE THEORY OF SECESSION. 447 

its pleasure ; that the states were sovereign, and that the government 
was but their agent, which any one of them could repudiate at will. 
This dangerous theory, which was absolutely destructive of the very 
constitution said to contain it, was fully believed, in I860, by a large 
portion of the Southern people. 

5. Thus, the states could secede at their pleasure. To make seces- 
sion their pleasure, it must be shown to be their interest ; and if this 
could be coupled with some grievance, some wrong they had received 
at the hands of the United States, the leaders, who were very shrewd 
and cun72ing men, saw that their chances of success would be much 
stronger. But as the United States gave them no cause, they were 
compelled to seek a pretext ; and this was found, where many had 
foreseen it would be found — in slavery. 

6. The leaders, having made the people believe that it was 
for their interest to maintain slavery among them, now taught 
them to believe that the people of the North wished to prevent it, 
and were going to elect a president who would take their slaves 
away from' them. It was easy to make them believe this, for they 
were purposely kept in ignorance, and had few advantages of enlight- 
ened public discussion. 

7. The people of the North, however, had no such intention. It 
is true a large majority of them thought slavery injurious to the 
South ; injurious to the slaves, injurious to the poor whites, whose 
labor was thus brought into ruinous competition with slave labor, 
and injurious to the slave-owner, whom it made cruel, despotic, and 
domineering. But they had no idea of interfering with a domestic 
institution over which they had no constitutional power. 

8. A presidential election was now at hand. The South had been 
lashed into a state of extreme and unreasoning exasperation by the 
artful men who ruled it, and the whole country shared, in a degree, 
in the agitation which followed. The South threatened secession, 
unless it were allowed a president to its liking : the North paid little 
heed to these threats, and, indeed, was unduly blind to the menacing 
aspect of things at the South. 

9. In tins state of affairs, the candidates were nominated : Abra- 
ham Lincoln, of UMnois, by the republican party, whose doctrine was 



5. Wbal of the necessity of a pretext? What pretext was found? 6. What were 
Southerners taught to believe of Northerners? Why was it easy to teach them 
this ? 7. What weie the real views of the people of the North? S. What was now the 
state of the country? 9,10. What candidates were nominated to the presidency, and 
what were the views of their resriective partisans? 



448 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

that slavery, though it must be tolerated where it existed, ought not 
to be extended into territory at that time free, and wliich miglit be 
acquired by the United States; John C, Breck -en-ridge, of Ken- 
tucky, by a portion of tlie democratic party, who contended that 
slavery miglit be so extended ; 

10. Stephen A. Douglas, of Illinois, Avhose doctrine — that known 
as Squatter Sovereignty — was, that the settlers of a territory, when 
they framed a State Constitution, could best decide tlie question for 
themselves; and Joliii Ijell, of Tennessee, whose partisans placed 
upon tlieir banners tlie simple device of " Tlie Constitution and the 
Laws." 

11. The line was distinctly drawn, in tliis election, along the border 
separating the free from the slave states — the North voting almost 
exclusively for Abraham Lincoln, and the South as exclusively for 
John 0. Breckenridge ; the former, owing to their great preponder- 
ance, electing their candidate. Here was the pretext the Southern 
leaders sought : they could easily convince those with whom their 
word was law, that their rights were invaded, and their liberties 
threatened. 



CIIAPTEE CCXXII. 

Lincoln's Administration. — Secession of Soi 

a?id other States. — Policy of the New President in rt- 
gard to Coei'cion. — Attach on Port Smnter, — Coinmence- 
raent of the Pehellion, — The Blochade. 

1. The state of South Carolina soon carried out the threat she had 
made, and her legislature passed, in December, an ordinance of seces- 
sion. Similar ordinances were passed by the legislatures of Mis- 
sissippi, Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Louisiana, and Texas. United 
States forts, arsenals, mints, custom-houses, ships, were seized by 
the states within whose borders they were : the government of Mr. 
Buchanan offering no resistance, and practically acknowledging that 



11. What of the. election? 

CiiAP. CCXXII.— 1. What (lid South Carolina now do? Other states? What oflbrls, 
arsenals, A;c. ? What did Mr. Buchanan do ? 



PRESIDENT LINCOLN 



449 



the general government had no constitutional power to coerce a sov- 
ereign state. 




PRESIDENT LINCOLN. 



2. Abraham Lincoln was inaugurated on the 4th of March, 1861. 
He found, on his accession to office, that a formidable rebellion ex- 
isted within the territory he had been summoned to rule : certain of 
the states which had taken part in the election, dissatisfied witli the 
result, had chosen a president and vice-president of their own, 
namely, Jefferson Davis and Alexander H. Stephens, and had set up 
a separate government, which called itself the Confederate States 
of America. 

8. Mr. Lincoln found also that the few slaps which composed the 
United States Navy had been scattered, as if purposely, over the 
world ; that the fragments of the army, which were principally 



2, 3. Describe the condition in which President Lincoln found the country, on his ac- 
cession to power. 
38* 



450 



HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 



stationed HI the Southern states, had been overpowered and cap- 
tured, or had been surrendered by their traitorous commanders • that 
a large vohmteer army was already under arn.s in tiie South' and 
that the flag of the United States, driven from tlie soil of the seceded 
states floated over but two of tlie forts defending their harbors- 
l^ort Sumter near Ciiarleston, and Fort Pickens near Pensaeola 

4 Major Anderson, with 70 men, was in command at Fort Sumter 
He had been compelled by President Buchanan to witness the erec" 
t.on ot batteries around the fort, without oftering resistance, and by 
the l8t of April, the supply of provisions in the beleaguered stron-' 
Jiold was well-nigh exhausted. On the 1 1th, General Bcaure-ard conl 
niandmg the rebel forces, being informed that an attempt would be 
liiade to throw supplies and reinforcements into the fort sent a 
iormal demand to Major Anderson to evacuate the place and turn it 
over to the authorities of South Carolina-a demand with which 
Major Anderson refused to comply. 




FORT SUl^TER 

5. At half-past four on the morning of April 12th, the first shot 
was bred from Fort Moultrie, nnd immediately afterwards be^an the 
strange battle between 7,000 men on one side and 70 on the other in 



4. What of M.jor Anderson? What did the rebel general demand ? The answ. 



FORT SUMTER. 451 

which no lives were lost on either side. Fort Sumter withheld her 
fii-e three hours, when her guns opened with vigor. The strife con- 
tinued without result during the day, the rebels keeping up a fire at 
intervals through tlie night. 

0. The next day, the wood- work of the fort was set on fire by 
-shells, and the men were forced to leave the guns to arrest the tiames. 
At twelve, the whole roofing of the barracks was on fire, and there 
was innninent danger of an explosion of the magazine. At last, worn 
out, sufi"ocated and almost blinded, the garrison capitulated, and the 
next day marched out with the honors of war, saluting the flag, then 
taking it down and carrying it with them. 

7. Tlie telegraph conveyed the tidings of this event to all parts of 
the country ; it excited everywhere the greatest amazement, few per- 
sons having believed hitherto that the South would ever proceed to 
extremities. It was also met with the determination, on the part of 
nine- tenths of the people of the North, that the rebellion should be 
8Ui)pressed, no matter how much human life, how much time and 
money, its suppression might require. The President issued a proc- 
himation on the 15th, calling for seventy-five thousand volunteer 
soldiers, and summoning Congress to meet upon the 4th of July. 

8. Though Virginia had not yet seceded, there was little doubt of 
her soon doing so, and as her territory was only separated by the 
Potomac from the District of Columbia, the situation of the capital 
was thought to be exceedingly critical. The eastern troops, there- 
fore, were ordered to rendezvous at Washington, tliose of the west 
concentrating at Cairo, St. Louis, Paducah, and Louisville. Virginia 
seceded on the 25th of April, and North Carolina, Tennessee, and 
Arkansas successively followed her example. The rebel capital, at 
first established at Montgomery, Alabama, was soon afterwards re- 
moved to Richmond, Virginia. 

9. One of the strongest measures taken against .the rebels, and put 
in force during the summer, was the blockade of their ports by 
United States ships. This blockade the subjects of Queen Victoria, 
and subsequently those of other European powers, were enjoined by 
their i-espective sovereigns, in proclamations of neutrality, not to 
attempt to break. These commands were pretty generally heeded, 
except by the English, who, throughout the struggle, while depre- 

5. 6. Describe the battle of Fort Sumter. 7. What was the effect upon the country? 
What did the president do? 8. What was thought of the condition of Washington? 
What of the eastern troops? The western ? What of Virginia? The rebel capital ? 
9. What strong measure was adopted against the rebels ? What of the conduct of 
foreigners? The consequence to themselves? 



452 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

eating bloodshed, did much to increase it, by supplying the enemy 
with articles contraband of war. Some of the persons engaged in 
this traffic made large fortunes, while some were ruined ; and per- 
haps two-thirds of their vessels were either captured or destroyed by 
our army and navy. 

10. Small skirmishes and fights of an unimportant nature, but 
which at the time seemed battles upon a large scale, took place 
during the month of June — at Big Bethel in Virginia, and at Boone- 
ville and Carthage, Missouri. In July, the forces in Western Virginia, 
under Generals McClellan and Rosecrtins, drove out the rebel trooi)s 
opposing them there, and in the middle of the month, the main 
United States Army at Washington, under General McDowell, with 
a co-operating force under General Patterson near Martiusburg, Vir- 
ginia, commenced their advance upon the rebel capital. 



CHAPTER CCXXIII. 

Lincoln's Administration, Continued. — The Battle of 
Bull Run. — -Other Events of the Year 1861. 

1. After several days' skirmishing, the two armies met near a 
bridge crossing a stream called Bull Run, near Manassas Junction in 
Virginia. The Union army advanced in three divisions under Gen- 
erals Heintzelman, Tyler, and Hunter, two divisions, those of Miles 
and Runyon, being in reserve and not engaged. The fight lasted for 
six hours, at the end of which time the Unionists were everywhere 
successful, and seemed on the point of gaining a decisive victory. 

2. At this moni_ent, however, the rebels under General Jolmston 
arrived upon the field from Winchester, General Patterson having 
failed to hold them in check. The Union army, unable to withstand 
an attack from fresh troops, fell into disorder, and finally into panic. 
The consequence Avas a serious disaster and a retreat upon AYashing- 
ton bearing all the features of a rout. The loss of the Unionists was 
about two thousand seven hundred in killed, wounded, and missing ; 
that of the rebels, nineteen hundred. 



10. Mention some early battles of the war. What took place near Washington in 
July? 

Chap. CCXXIII.— 1, 2. Describe the battle of Bull Pain. 



CAPTURE OF PORT ROYAL. 4:06 

8. This battle opened the eyes of the people to the true situation 
of affairs. They saw that the rebellion was more serious than they 
had believed ; that the war for its suppression would be longer than 
]iad been hoped ; and that greater and more costly sacrifices must be 
made, if the government was to be maintained and the Union pre- 
served. 

4. The whole country, therefore, girded itself for the struggle : 
Congress gave the president all the men and money he desired, and 
General McClellan, who had been successful in his operations in 
Western Virginia, was called to the command of the Army of the 
Potomac. Immense numbers of soldiers were now sent forward to 
the armies ; those joining the army under General McClellan accu- 
mulated till, at the beginning of 1862, it numbered about two hun- 
dred thousand. 

5. Several battles were fought in Missouri in July and August, 
with varying results; in one of them, that of Wilson's Creek, General 
Lyon was killed. On the 29th of August, a joint miHtary and naval 
expedition, under General Butler and Commodore Stringliam, cap- 
tured two forts upon Hatteras Inlet, North Carolina, defending the 
entrance to Pandico and Albemarle Sound. This not only shut up a 
coast exceedingly difficult to blockade, but gave the Unionists an im- 
portant hold upon the enemy's country. 

6. On the 1st of November, Lieutenant-General Scott resigned his 
position as general-in-chief of the armies of the United States, and 
Major-General McClellan was appointed to succeed him. This selec- 
tion was received with universal approbation by the country. 

7. On the 7th of November, an attack was made by a naval force 
under Commodore Dupont upon the forts at the entrance of the har- 
bor of Port Pvoyal, in South Carohna. The rebels abandoned their 
forts, with forty-two guns, after a fight of five hours, and a Union 
army, under General T. W. Sherman, took possession of tlie town and 
harbor, and of the inland village of Beaufort, This was the most 
important engagement of the first year of the war. 

8. On the day after this victory. Captain Wilkes, commanding the 
U. S. frigate San Jacinto, overhauled the British mail steamer Trent, 
at sea, and took from her Messrs. Mason and Slidell, ambassadors 
from the rebel government to England and France. This act caused 

8. What was the eflfect upon the country? 4. What did Congress do ? Wlio Avas ap- 
pointed to command the Annyofthe Potomac? Wliat of this army ? 5. What of battles 
in Missouri? Descriljo the expedition against Hatteras Inlet. 6. What of Generals 
Scott and McClellan ? 7. What of an attack upon Poi-t Eoyal ? S. What of the capture 
of rebel ambassadors ? The consequence ? 



454 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

great exciteinent in Europe and America, and war seemed for a time 
imminent between England and the United States. It was averted, 
however, by the skilful management of Mr. Seward, Secretary of 
State, and the rebel envoys were sent forward to their destination. 

9. On the 19th of January, 1&62, an important action was fought 
at Mill Spring, in Kentucky, between the Unionists under Generals 
Sehoepf and Thomas, and the rebels under Generals Crittenden and 
Zollicoffer. The latter were forced in great confusion and with heavy 
loss across the Cumberland River ; General Zollicoffer was killed. 

10. In February, an expedition under General Burnside, having 
passed through Hatteras Inlet, made itself master of large portions of 
tlie interior coast of North Carolina, and of the important strong- 
hold of Roanoke Island. A large number of rebel vessels navigating 
the waters of Pamlico and Albemarle Sound were destroyed, and a 
wide extent of territory fell into the undisputed possession of the 
United States. These brilliant successes, while they greatly encour- 
aged the Unionists, did not seem in the least to dishearten the rebels. 



OHAPTEE CCXXIY. 

Lincoln's Administration, Continued. — The Battle of 
Fort Donelson. — The Merrimac and Monitor. — The 
Battle of Shiloh. — Reduction of Fort Pulaski. — Gap- 
ture of New Orleans. 

1. Thus far, there had been little purpose or plan in the con- 
duct of the war. The various battles fought had borne no relation 
to each other ; there had been no co-operation between the East and 
the West. This was now to be changed ; and victories were to be 
won, by which the enemy would be forced not only to retreat from 
the field, but to abandon whole states. 

2. The rebels had fortified three rivers, the iiississippi, the Ten- 
nessee, and the Cumberland. They knew that tlie Union army could 
hardly advance into and remain in the rebellious districts unless it 



9. Describe the battle of Mill Sprins:. 10. What of Burnside's expedition a^rainst Nnrth 
Carolina? The result of these successet^ ? 

Chap. COXXIV.— 1. What of the i)lan of the war, thus far? What was now to be 
done ? 2. What rivers had the rebels fortiQed, and why ? 



THE BATTLE OF PORT DONELSON. 455 

was sustained and provisioned by the navy. To keep the Union 
gunboats from ascending the Tennessee and Cumberland and de- 
scending the Mississippi, was the object of tlie forts erected upon 
their banks ; to take these forts and open the way for an advance 
was the work now before the Union army. 

3. On the 6th of February, Fort Henry, on the Tennessee, was 
attacked and taken by Flag-OflBcer Foote's fleet of seven gunboats, 
after a short fight of one hour and a quarter. The main body of the 
garrison escaped to Fort Donelson, upon the Cumberland Eiver, 
about twenty miles from Fort Henry. 

4. Fort Donelson was invested by forty thousand Unionists under 
General Grant, on the 12th. Tlie battle commenced on the loth, 
Foote's fleet, which had descended the Tennessee into the Ohio, and 
thence sailed up the Cumberland, arriving at nightfall. The fight 
continued during the 14th, and a terrific assault made upon the 
works on the afternoon of the 15th, placed the Union troops in pos- 
session of a redoubt commanding the principal fortress. 

5. The next morning, it was found that five thousand men of the 
garrison had decamped, and that the remainder, some thirteen thou- 
sand men, would surrender, if favorable terms were granted. Gen- 
eral Grant sent word that the surrender must be unconditional, and 
tliat he proposed moving immediately upon their works. The conse- 
quence was that General Buckner surrendered thirteen thousand 
men, sixty-seven guns, and twenty thousand stand of arms. The 
rebels lost twelve hundred and thirty -eight in killed and wounded : 
the Unionists, being the assaulting party, lost nineteen hundred and 
eighty-one. 

6. The result of these battles was that the rebels evacuated Bow- 
ling Green in Kentucky, and Clarksville and Nashville in Tennessee, 
and dismantled the almost impregnable fortress of Columbus, upon 
the Mississippi, retreating further south. Kentucky was now clear 
of organized bands of rebels, except in the extreme southwestern 
corner. 

7. An extraordinary event took place on the 8th of March in 
Hampton Roads, near Norfolk, Virginia. The rebels had converted 
the United States frigate Merrimac into an iron-clad ram. This for- 
midable vessel came out of Norfolk, and attacked the blockading fleet, 
dashing her iron prow into their wooden sides, and throwing off 
their balls from her mailed sides as if they had been peas or marbles. 

3. Describe the capture of Fort Henry. 4, 5. Describe the battle and surrender of 
Fort Doneison. 6. What was the result of these battles? 



456 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

8. By nightfE^ll, the Cunibcrland had gone down, with all on board ; 
the Congress had been set on fire and forced to surrender ; the Min- 
nesota was run aground, and was apfjarently destined to fall an easy 
prey on the morrow. But during the night, a small steam floating 
battery, called the Monitor, described by the rebels as looking like a 
cheese-box upon a raft, arrived from New York. 

9. The Merrimac, in attempting to renew her ravages, on the 9th, 
was confronted by the Monitor. The two vessels fought for hours at 
point-blank range, the Merrimac's eleven guns doing no damage, and 
the Monitor's two but little. The Merrimac then attempted to run 
the Monitor down, but without success. She then withdrew from 
the contest and returned to Norfolk. She remained for several 
months a menace to the Unionists, but never fired anottier shot. 

10. On the 10th of this month, the rebels, who had remained at 
Manassas Junction, constantly threatening Washington, since the 
battle of Bull Eun, evacuated that place, withdrawing towards Rich- 
mond. The next day General McClellan resigned the general con- 
trol of all the armies, and cast his fortunes with the now moving 
Army of the Potomac, as its chief. 

11. On the 6th and 7th of April, a terrible battle was fought at 
Pittsburgh Landing, or Shi'-loh, on the Tennessee River. The battle 
was desired by the Unionists, but it was brought on by the rebels 
before the former had concentrated their forces. These, under 
General Grant, were driven to the river with great loss, and were 
only saved from rout by the gunboats. They were reinforced during 
the night by troops under General Buell, and by four o'clock the 
next day had completely defeated the enemy, who left three thousand 
dead upon the field. 

12. In the mean time. General Pope had compelled the enemy to 
evacuate their position at New Madrid, on the Mississippi, and the 
fleet of Commodore Foote, after a bombardment of twenty-thr-ee 
days, forced the surrender of seventy guns at Island No. 10. General 
Pope cut off the retreat of the rebels from the latter place, taking 
six thousand prisoners and ten thousand stand of arms. Thus, the 
opening of the great river made constant progress southward. 

13. Fort Pu-las'-ki, on the Savannah River, surrendered on the 11th 
of April, after a bombardment of thirty hours from Tybee Island, 



7, S, 9. Describe the combat of the Monitor and Merrimac. 10. "What took place at 
Manassas? What did General McClellan do? 11. Di-scribe the battle of Shiloli. 12. 
What of the operations of General Pope and (Commodore Foote upon ttie Mississippi? 
13. Describe the reduction of Fort riibwki. 



THE CAPTURE OF NEW ORLEANS. 467 

batteries having been erected there by Captain, since Major- General, 
Gill more. Forty-seven gims, seven thousand shot and shell, forty 
thousand pounds of powder, and three hundred prisoners, were taken 
with the fort. This closed the harbor of Savannah for the remainder 
of the war. 

14. An attack, which had been long in preparation, was made on 
the 18th of April, by gunboats and vessels of war under Flag-Officer 
Farragut, and a mortar fleet under Captain, afterwards Admiral, 
Porter, upon Forts Jackson and St. Philip, commanding the passage 
from the Gulf of Mexico to the city of New Orleans, upon the Mis- 
sissippi River. Farragut bombarded them for six days, and, failing to 
reduce them, resolved to run his principal vessels past them. 

15. A terrible fight, lasting two hours, ensued : the vessels, after 
passing the forts, were assailed by the rebel fleet of rams, fire-ships, 
floating batteries and rafts, sixteen of which were destroyed, the 
Union fleet coming to anchor within twenty miles of New Orleans. 
The rebels, after destroying three million dollars worth of property, 
surrendered the city, which was taken possession of by a land force 
under General Butler. 



CHAPTEK CCXXy. 

Lincoln's Administration, Continued. — TJie Campaign 
of the Arrny of the Potomac. — The Seven Days. — The 
Second Battle of Bull Run. — The Battle of Antietam. 

1. In the mean time, the Army of the Potomac had moved, the 
greater part of it having been transported by water from Alexandria 
to the Peninsula, as the best approach to Richmond. A considerable 
force under General McDowell had been stationed at Fred'-er-icks- 
burg, between Richmond and Washington, to prevent any sudden 
dash by the enemy upon the latter place. 

2. The army commenced its march upon Richmond on the 4th of 
April, and was soon before the enemy's works at Yorktown. A. 
month wns spent in digging trenches and constructing other works 

14, 15. Describe the attack upon Forts Jaokson and St. Philip ; the capture of New 
Orleans. 

Chap. CCXXV.— 1, What of the Army of the Potomac?' A force under General 
McDowell? 2. What took place at Yorktown ? 
39 



458 HTRTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

of approach ; on the 4th o( May, when every thing was ready for 
the attack, the enemy evacuated the place, and the Union forces 
took possession. 

3. The battle of Wil'-liams-burg was fought on the 6th of May, 
General Joseph Johnston being in command of the rebels, some 
thirty thousand strong. Each army lost about three thousand men, 
the Unionists entering the town at the end of the struggle. At the 
close of the month, the army, after a series of bloody skirmishes, 
found itself partially surrounding Richmond, at an average distance 
of five or six miles. 

4. The terrible battle of the Chick-a-hom'-i-ny, or Fair Oaks, was 
fought on the 31st of May. The Union advance, which had been 
thrown across the river, was attacked with great impetuosity, and 
but for the arrival of reinforcements, must have been totally de- 
stroyed. The fight continued the next day, and the Union forces 
remained masters of the field. Six rebel generals, including General 
Johnston, were wounded. 

5. The army had hitherto drawn its supplies from the York and 
Pa-mun'-key Rivers, on the eastern side of the peninsula : raids of 
the enemy's cavalry had now made this place insecure, and General 
McClellan determined to cross the peninsula to the James, and open 
a new communication with the supply fleet there. The movement 
commenced on the 24th of June, and lasted seven days. 

6. During this terrible week, the two armies were in constant col- 
lision, and battles were fought bearing the following names : Oak 
Grove, Me-chan'-ics-ville, Gaines' Mill, Peach Orchard, Savage's Sta- 
tion, AVhite Oak Swamp, and Malvern Hill. The Unionists had lost 
over fifteen thousand men, when they arrived, under the protection 
of the James River gunboats, at Harrison's Landing. 

7. The rebel army, no longer required for the defence of Rich- 
mond, immediately began a movement against Washington. To 
oppose this, the Union forces at Fredericksburg under McDowell, 
and those in the She-nan-do' -ah Valley under Banks and Fremont, 
were united in one command under General Pope. The army thus 

:i collected not being considered sufficient for the emergency, General 
; McClellan was ordered to evacuate the peninsula and send forward 
his men to Pope's relief. 



8. The battle of Williamsburg ? Where was the Union army at the close of May ? 4. 
Describe the battle of Fair Oaks. 5. What of a change of base ? The execution of this 
movement? 6. What of the Seven Days" Battles ? The losses? 7. What did the rebel 
army now do ? What was done to oppose the movement ? 



THE BATTLE OF A NT IE T AM. 459 

8. Before this was done, liowever, General Pope became involved 
in a series of contests which ended in his total defeat. He fell back 
from the Rap-pa-han'-nock River on the 23d of August, and on the 
30th a general battle was fought between the whole army of the 
rebels under General Lee and the Union forces under General Pope. 
The hitter were defeated with great loss, and fell back towards Wash- 
ington to Centreville. This is called the Second Battle of Bull Run. 

9. The rebel array, unable to march dh*ectly upon Washington, 
which was defended by an impregnable line of fortifications upon the 
Virginia side of the Potomac, were compelled to go round by the 
Shenandoah Valley and the fords of the upper Potomac. The Union 
army, once more under McOlellan, was placed in a position to inter- 
cept them. 

10. The two forces met in Maryland, on the banks of a stream 
called the An-tie'-tara. A battle was fought on the 14th of Septem- 
ber at South Mountain, in which the rebels were defeated : Harper's 
Ferry was taken by the rebel general Jackson, the next day, with 
eleven thousand men and fifty guns. The decisive battle of the year's 
campaign took place near Sliarpsbnrg, Maryland, on the 17th. 

11. In this terrible struggle there were about one hundred tliou- 
sand men engaged on either side. The fight raged from daylight 
until dark, each army losing about thirteen thousand men. The 
rebels retreated during the night, and on the morning of the lOtli 
there were no rebels in arms north of the Potomac. General McOlel- 
lan thought it unwise to pursue them in their retreat, and they 
withdrew unmolested into Virginia. This contest is known as the 
Battle of Antietam. 



CHAPTER CCXXVI. 

Lincoln's Administration, Continued. — Successes in the 

West. — T lie Battles of Fredericksburg^ Chancellor sville^ 

and Gettysburg. — The Surrender of Yicksburg and 

Port Hudson. — The Battle of Chickamauga. — Siege and 

Relief of Knoxmlle, — Capture of Missionary Ridge. 

1. In the mean time, operations in the west had been generally 
successful. Commodore Farragut's fleet, passing up |,!ie Mississippi, 

8. Describe the Second Battle of Bull Run. 9. What of the marches of the two armies? 
10. Where did they meet? The battle at South Mountain? What occurred at Harper's 
Ferry? 11. D--scribe the battle f)f Antiftam. 



460 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

received the surrender of Natchez on the 12th of May ; and the fleet 
of Commodore Davis, who had succeeded Commodore Foote, passing 
down the river, and defeating the rebel vessels attempting to oppose 
him, compelled the surrender of Memphis on the 6th of June. 

2. The Union forces, under General Rosecrans, obtained a brilliant 
success at I-u'-ka, in Mississippi, on the 20th of September, and near 
Corinth, on the 4th and 5th of October. General Buell arrived at 
Louisville, Kentucky, on the 25th. The rebel General Bragg's pur- 
pose of invading Ohio was now hopeless. Bragg issued numerous 
proclamations to the Kentuckians, imploring them to join his ranks ; 
soon afterwards, managing to elude General Buell, he evacuated the 
state, marching southward into Tennessee. 

3. President Lincoln, dissatisfied with certain acts on the part of 
General McClellan, relieved him of the command of the Army of the 
Potomac early in November, putting General Burnside in his place. 
On the 11th of December, the Union artillery bombarded Fred- 
ericksburg in Virginia, troops crossing the Rappahannock upon pon- 
toons under cover of their fire. An assault upon the rebel works 
was made on the 13th and was signally unsuccessful, the Unionists 
losing some twelve thousand men. 

4. The rebels were still in possession of the Mississippi River from 
Vicksburg on the north to Port Hudson on the south. A Union 
army under General W. T. Sherman made an unavailing attack upon 
the former stronghold late in December. General Rosecrans won a 
brilliant victory after a four days' fight at Stone River, Tennessee : 
the rebels retreating from Mur'-frees-bo-ro', and the Union army oc- 
cupying it, on the 4th of January, 1863. 

6. General Hooker succeeded General Burnside in the command of 
the Army of the Potomac on the 24th, the army remaining inactive 
until April. Late in that month, it again crossed the Rappahannock 
and reached Chan'-cell-ors-ville, where a sanguinary and disastrous 
battle took place, the Union army losing eighteen thousand men, but 
withdrawing in safety to the north bank of the river. 

6. Both armies remained quiet till the 9th of June. It was then 
discovered that the rebels under Lee were moving towards the fords 
of the Potomac, with the evident intention of attacking Baltimore 



Chap. CCXXVI.— 1. What o; operations in the west? The fleets of Farragut and 
Davis? 2. Operations under General Kosecrans ? The marches of Bragg and Buell? 
S. What of a change m the Army of the Potomac? The battle of FrtdiTicksburg? 
4. What part of the Mississippi was still in rebel possession? What of an attack npon 
Vicksburg? A battle at Stone Eiver? 5. Describe the battle of Chancellorsville. 6. 
What was discovered in June ? 



aETTYSBTTKj; AND VIOKSBURG. 461 

or AVushington. (leiieral Meude was ordered to take coniuiand of the 
Union army, and at once ordered an advance into Pennsylvania. 

7. The armies met at C4et'-tys-burg, in that state, and here, 
upon the 1st, 2d, and 3d of July, was fought a severe and de- 
cisive battle. The rebels were totally defeated, leaving fourteen 
thousand prisoners and twenty-five thousand small-arms behind 
them. They succeeded in escaping over the Potomac, with a total 
loss of about thirty thousand men. The battle-field was ])urchased 
l)y the state of Pennsylvania ns a national cemetery for the loyal sol- 
diers who fell in the struggle. 

8. Another success of the most brilliant nature occurred at a1)Out 
the same time. General Grant had, after a campaign of great 
boldness and originality, got his army in the rear of Vicksburg, and, 
with the help of Admiral Porter's fleet, completely invested it. The 
place surrendered on the 4th of July, the rebels losing in the entire 
campaign over forty thousand prisoners and 300 guns. 

9. Port Hudson surrendered to General Banks on the 8th, with 
seven thousand prisoners and fifty guns. The Mississippi was now 
open from its source to its mouth, and the confederacy was cut into 
two parts, neither of them capable of aiding the other. These great 
events called forth the most enthusiastic rejoicings throughout the 
loyal states, and the whole world recognized in General Grant a 
soldier of consummate ability. 

10. General Eosecrans was still at Murfreesboro', Tennessee, in 
June of this year : the enemy were south of him, at Shel'-by-ville and 
Tul-la-ho'-ma, opposing his advance into Georgia. Rosecrans com- 
menced a movement on the 25th, and turned the enemy's flank so 
successfully, that Bragg, the rebel general, fell back in confusion to 
Bridgeport, Alabama, and afterwards to Chat-ta-noo'-ga, in East Ten- 
nessee. Our forces entered the latter place on the 9th of September. 

11. General Bosecrans was attacked by the enemy, at Chick-a- 
mau'-ga, on the 19th, and, owing to a misapprehension of one of his 
orders, the rebels gained some important advantages, and the day 
was only saved by the arrival of General Granger, and the splendid 
valor of General Thomas and his men. The Union loss was sixteen 
thousand, and the progress of the Union army southward was for the 
])resent stayed. 

12. General Bragg, thinking himself able to spare a division of his 

7. Describe the battle of Gettysburg. S; The surrendfr of Vicksburg. 9. The surren- 
iler of Port Hudson. What was the effect of these victories ? 10. Describe the oi)eratioiis 
by which the Union army got possession of ('hnttanooL,M. 11. Describe the battle of 
C'hickamauga. 
30^ 



4(^2 H I S T () R Y O F T H P] UNITED S T A T E S . 

army, sent Longstreet to attack Burnside at Knoxville, in East Ten- 
nessee. Not only was Longstreet driven out of East Tennessee, but 
Bragg, having now to contend with General Grant, who had suc- 
ceeded Rosecrans, lost the famous range of heights called Missionary 
liidge, and was forced ftir down into the mountain fastnesses of 
Georgia. 

13. Thus the year closed with every indication that the rebellion 
WHS approaching its end, and that a few more such blows as had 
been delivered at Gettysburg, Vicksburg, and Chattanooga, would 
quite finish it. 



CHAPTEE VCXXYIL 

Lincoln's Admlnistkation, Continued. — (reneral Grant 
made Lieutenant- General. — Campaign of the Army of 
the Potomac. — Action hetween the Alabama and Kear- 
sarge. — F'arrrtgufs Victory in Mobile Bay. 

I. The months of January and February, 1864, were not lost by 
the Unionists. Important expeditions were set on foot, with a view 
rather to distract the enemy and prevent him from executing liis 
own plans, than to accomplish any definite end, A large body of 
men under General Sherman marched from Vicksburg to Me-rid-'i-an 
and back, destroying railroads, stores, and bridges, and liberating ten 
thousand negroes. Cavalry raids, under Kilpatrick, Custer, and 
Dahlgren, did great damage in the vicinity of Richmond. 

2. Congress having authorized the president to bestow the title of 
lieutenant-general upon the officer most deserving it, it was con- 
ferred, with the assent of the whole people, upon General Grant, 
who thus became, on the 12th of March, commander-in-chief of the 
armies of the United States. He immediately stationed himself with 
the Army of the Potomac, then in quarters just north of the Rappa- 
hannock, General Sherman being placed in command of the army at 
Chattanooga. The attention of the entire country was now concen- 
trated upon these two bodies of men. 



12. What (lid the rebel general ilo in regard to Knoxville? What followed? 13. How 
did the year 1863 close? 
CuAP. GCXXVII. — 1. What of expeditions and raids during the early winter months ? 

2. What of Congress and General Grant? What command did the latter take? General 
Sherman ? 



txRAN'T'S VTRPtINIA CAMPAIGN. 463 

3. After two months' preparation, Grant's army, on the 3d of May, 
crossed the Eap'-i-dan, moving towards Chancellorsville and the 
wilderness : Lee's army at once attacked, and in a terrible battle 
fouglut upon the 5th and 6th, each side lost about fifteen thousand 
men. The rebels withdrew to their second line on the JTorth Anna 
River. There was severe fighting on the 8th and 9th, and on the 
10th the famous battle of Spott-syl-va'-ni-a occurred. Each side 
lost some ten thousand men, the rebels again falling back. 

4. General Butler, at Fortress Monroe, had been ordered to co- 
operate with Grant. He, therefore, at the time of Grant's first ad- 
vance, marched the army of the James northward, and seizing upon 
Bermuda Hundred, on the western bank of the James, intrenched 
himself there. He attempted to cut and hold the railroad between 
Petersburg and Richmond, but, though at first successful, w^as sub- 
sequently foiled. 

5. Grant now crossed the North Anna, compelling the rebels to 
retreat southward again, that they might cover Richmond. On the 
29th, he crossed the Pa-mun'-key, the two armies confronting each 

other from Hanover Court-House to Cold Harbor. A bloody and 
indecisive struggle took place here on the 3d of June, Grant's army 
crossing the James, to the south of Richmond, on the 14th. Assaults 
on the works defending Petersburg were made on the 16th and on 
the 18th, but failed, the Union loss being over ten thousand men. 

6. Grant's attention was now devoted to seizing and holding the 
Weldon Railroad, an important line of supply to Petersburg and 
Richmond from the south. It was several times cut and temporarily 
damaged before a permanent lodgment was eff'ected in August. This 
was followed by several desperate attempts on the part of the rebels 
to regain the road, in which their losses w^ere very large, and ours 
comparatively slight. 

7. In the mean time, Lee had attempted a diversion, by sending a 
marauding expedition into Maryland and Pennsylvania, the object 
being to force Grant to relax his hold upon Richmond by with- 
drawing men from his armies for the defence of Washington. This 
did not succeed : the rebels obtained some plunder, and burned 
several towns and villages, but the operations against their strong- 
hold were not for a moment suspended. 



•3. What of the Army of the Potomac ? What battles wore fought ? 4. How did Gen- 
eral Butler co-operate ? 5. What rivers did General Grant now cross ? What of a battle ? 
What now took place ? 6. To what did Grant now devote his attention ? 7. What of 
a diversion attempted by the rebels ? 



404 



HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES^, 



8. To prevent the rebels from repeating this attempt by way of 
the Shenandoah Valley, a strong force was posted there and General 
Sheridan placed in command. A series of brilliant victories won by 
him over General Early completely annihilated the rebels in this 
qnarter, and the Valley was not again a point of interest during the 
war. 

9. On the 30th of July a mine was exploded under a i)ortion of the 
Petersburg fortifications, followed by an unsuccessful assault upon the 
rebel works, involving a Union loss of four thousand men. The 
army remained in this position for many months, preventing Lee 
from sending assistance to points which sorely needed it, and thus 
contributing to the brilliant successes of the Unionists upon other 
fields. 




SINKING OF THE ALABAMA BY THE KEARSARGE. 

10. Two splendid naval victories were won this year. The first 
occurred as follows: — The rebels had obtained a steamer in England, 
— built, owned, and largely manned by Englishmen, though com- 
manded by Americans. This vessel, the Alabama, sailed about the 



S. What of the Valley of the Shenandoah ? 9. What of a mine at Petersburg? How 
did the army of the Potomac conttibulc to successes elsewhere? 



THE KEARSARGE AND ALABAMA. 465 

ocean, capturing, robbing, and burning United ^States merchant ships, 
thus seeking to drive American commerce from the seas. Our gov- 
ernment claimed that this vessel was not a rebel, but English, never 
having been in a rebel port, and so never having lost her character 
as an English vessel. 

11. On the 19th of June, this pirate offered battle to the Ke -ar- 
earge, a United States steam sloop-of-vrar. They met in the English 
Channel, twelve miles from the coast of France, and although the 
two ships were as nearly matched as they could be, the pirate was 
sunk in an hour, the Kearsarge being little injured. This event ex- 
cited the liveliest gratification in the loyal states, and was gener- 
ally lamented by the English — who could not forget that the Ala- 
bama, though only distinguished for its destruction of unresisting 
trading ships, had been built in a British port, was armed witli 
British guns, and manned principally by British sailors. 

12. The other victory was that achieved in Mobile- Bay. A large 
fleet, under Admiral Farragut, instead of attempting to reduce the 
works defending the entrance to the bay by a bombardment, boldly 
forced the passage, thus compelling their surrender. In this action — 
perhaps the most brilliant upon record — the admiral gave his orders 
from the main-top of the Hartford, where he was -lashed fast, commu- 
nicating with the quarter-deck by a speaking-tube. This and his 
previous escapes from the midst of a terrible fire, obtained for him 
the popular name of the Salamander. 



CHAPTER CCXXYIII. 

Lincoln's Administkatiox, Continued.— TA^ Campaigns 
of Sherman^ Army. — Capture of Atlanta. — The Mo/rch 
to the Sea. — Capture of Savannah. — Destniction of 
Hood'^s Army hy General Thomas. 

1. It has been said that General Sherman succeeded General Grant 
i n the command of the army at Chattanooga. It had been agreed 
between these two officers that their armies should move at the same 
time ; and, accordingly, when Grant crossed the Rapidan, early in 



10, 11. Describe the action between the Alabama and the Kearsarge? What was the 
Alabama? 12. Describe the passage of the forts in Mobile Bay. 
20 



466 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

May, Sheruuiii started for Atlanta. He carried and Ixeld Daltoii on 
the 12th of May, and Re-sa'-ca on the 15th: the battle of Dallas was 
fought on the 25th, with great loss to the rebels. 

2. The army, thus started on its march, never stopped except to 
fight ; it kept on through Mar-i-et'-ta, Al-la-too'-na Pass, Big Shanty, 
and through the Ken'-e-saw range • the rebels under General Joseph 
Johnston delaying their progress as much as possible, but not hoping 
to effect any thing more than delay. On the 16th of July the Union 
army completed the crossing of the Ohat-ta-hoo'-chie, and had very 
soon invested Atlanta on three sides. 

8. In the mean time, the wary General Johnston was removed, and 
General Hood, believed to be a bolder and more dashing officer, suc- 
ceeded him. He at once commenced throwing his army upon the 
Union lines, losing twenty thousand men in three days. Sherman 
now bombarded Atlanta, and, failing in this, on the 30th of August 
iftterposed his whole army between Atlanta and Hood's army, in- 
trenched to the south. The evacuation of the rebel stronghold imme- 
diately followed. 

4. Sherman's army, now established in the heart of the rebel 
territory, was fed and supplied by a single line of railroad — that 
over which it had advanced, and which it had repaired as it marched. 
This road ran through mountain passes, along narrow defiles, over 
innumerable streams, and General Hood believed that it would be 
easy to cut it, and hold it long enough to starve out the Union 
army and force it to return to the north, abandoning its hardly earned 
conquests. 

5. He therefore marched northward, and, at certain points, did 
cut and hold the railroad for a time. Sherman pursued him for 
a while till Hood arrived within a certain distance of Nashville, 
where there was a strong garrison, and numerous outlying detach- 
ments, sufficient, if united, to form a powerful army. Leaving Hood 
to be dealt with by these forces, who were commanded by General 
Thomas, Sherman took a step which drew upon him the eyes of the 
civilized world. 

6. He returned to Atlanta, concentrating there the bulk of his 
army, and, his preparations at length completed, marched — south- 
ward. People ahnost held their breath when they heard this move- 



Chai'. OCXXVIir.— 1. What did General Sherman do in May? 2. Describe the marcli 
of his army. 3. Wliat change was made in tlie rebel army ? What did the new genenil 
duV What victory was now won l>y Sherman? -4. How was the Union army at Atlanta 
fed ? What was believed bv General Hood? 5. State what the two generals now did. 



SHERMAN'S MARCH TO THE SEA. 467 

ment was contemplated. No one knew where the army was going ; 
many fancied it would never be heard of again. But General Grant, 
under whose orders Sherman was acting, knew that the rebel confed- 
eracy was nothing but a shell, all the resistance being at the surface. 

7. It is unnecessary, in this book, to enter into the details of Sher- 
nuxn's march to the sea. His army lived upon the country through 
which it passed, captured capitals, destroyed railroads, liberated 
slaves, supplied themselves with horses and mules, threw the whole 
country into confusion, and proved the hollowness of the rebellion. 

8. In December they approached Savannah, upon the Atlantic 
coast. Fort McAllister defended the approach to the city from the sea 
by certain small rivers and creeks, and, this obstacle removed, Sher- 
man could open a new base of supplies for his army, by the ocean. 
The fort was taken by assault, in a very spirited action, and General 
Sherman was able soon after to ask the president's acceptance " of 
the city of Savannah as a Christmas present." 

9. About this time. General Hood, having invested Nashville on the 
south, was attacked with great vigor by General Thomas. The 
rebel general was utterly routed, being compelled to fly after the 
loss of all his artillery, half his army, and a part of his train. What 
was left of his army never again assumed the offensive. 



CHAPTEK CCXXIX. 

Lincoln's Administkation, Continued. — Sherman's March 
Northward fromn Savannah. — Capture of Richmond 
and Surrender of Lee and his Army, — Surrender of 
the other Armies of the Rebellion.— Assassination of 
Ahraham Lincoln. 

1. In the mean time, Abraham Lincoln had been re-elected presi- 
dent, and Andrew Johnson, of Tennessee, formerly a senator from 
that state, and, since 1862, its military governor, was elected vice- 
])resident. The rebels, knowing that four years more of war and 
ruin were before them, unless they abandoned their treasonable pur- 
poses, were greatly discouraged by this event. 

6,1. Describe the march of Sherman's army. 8. What took place at Savannah? 9. 
What occurred between Generals Thomas and Hood? 

Chap CCXXIX. — 1. Who had in the mean time been elected president and vice-presi- 
dent ? What was the effect on the rebels ? 



468 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

2. General Grant, holding the rebel army at Richmond as in a vice, 
was evidently waiting for Sherman's army to come north and assist 
him. The people therefore looked with intense anxiety for the move- 
ment. This was soon made. Before the army was fully furnished 
with its new equipment, the march through South Carolina commenced. 
The spring thaws and freshets had flooded the country, and the sol- 
diers had to wade and swim rather than march. 

3. Encountering difficulties such as have been met and vanquished 
by only two other armies in the world's history, the army gained 
the high lands, and thenceforward the men walked dry-shod. They 
took Columbia, the capital, and forced the evacuation of Charleston, 
though never within one hundred miles of that city. On they went, 
crossing at length the North Carolina frontier. 

4. The most magnificent fleet that had ever been sent to sea, com- 
manded by Admiral Porter, accompanied by a picked land force 
under General Terry, was now assembhng oif Fort Fisher, — a very 
powerful work commanding the entrance to Cape Fear River, upon 
which, some miles from its mouth, was the city of Wilmington. 

5. Fort Fisher fell, after one of the most tremendous bombard- 
ments and brilliant assaults on record, and Wilmington w^as soon 
after abandoned. The garrisons relieved by these surrenders — 
those of Savannah, Charleston, Wilmington — were concentrated in 
Sherman's path under General Johnston, who had been superseded 
in Georgia by Hood. The two armies confronted each other near 
Ealeigh in North Carolina, but, owing to events that had in the 
mean time occurred elsewhere, never fought a battle. 

6. General Grant, seeing that the hour had come for the final blow, 
set the arniies of the Potomac and the James in motion, in March. 
The brilliant operations of the Unionists that follow^ed are soon told. 
Petersburg and Richmond were speedily in possession of Union de- 
tachments, while the two armies, the one fleeing, the other pursuing, 
rolled off to the west. 

7. There was no succor, no relief, for the army of Lee ; there were 
no reinforcements, there was absolutely no hope. Pressed on all sides, 
hemmed in by forces advancing in all directions, Lee surrendered 
on the 6th of April. This was virtually the end of the rebellion, 



2. For what was Grant waiting? With what had Sherman's army to contend? 3. 
What of the march? 4. What was Fort Fisher? What prei)arations had been made to 
attack it? 5. What was the result ? What opposition did Sherman meet? Where did 
the two armies meet ? 6. What did General Grant now do ? Petersburg and Richmond? 
T. What became of Lee and his army? Of Johnston? 



CLOSE OP THE REBELLION. 469 

for Johnston and his army soon afterwards abandoned the contest 
upon the conditions granted to Lee. 

8. General Taylor east, and Kirby Smith west of the Mississippi, 
surrendered in turn upon similar terms, and the country passed sud- 
denly from a state of war to a state of profound peace. The rejoic- 
ings over these au8i)icious events were cut short by a deed as start- 
ling as it was atrocious. 

9. Abraham Lincoln was assassinated, at a theatre in Washington, 
on the night of the 14th of April, The shot was fired by one of a 
gang of conspirators whose scheme was to deprive the country of its 
government, by killing all its principal members, and thus enable 
the rebellion to succeed. The Secretary of State Avas stabbed and 
wounded in several places by one of the party, and General Grant, 
the Secretary of War, and the Vice-President narrowly escaped; the 
President alone fell a victim to the plot. The assassin was tracked 
and killed; four of his accomplices were soon afterwards hung, and 
four others were sentenced to various terms of imprisonment. 

10. In spite of this terrible event, the action of the government was 
not disturbed or for an instant suspended, Andrew Johnson took 
the oath of office as president a few hours after Mr. Lincoln expired, 
and as far as official and public matters were concerned, every thing 
went on as before. The nations of Europe, which had looked upon 
the suppression of the rebellion as a proof of the strength of the 
republican form of govei'nment, regarded the tranquil accession of a 
vice-president to power, under the circumstances, as a still more 
convincing one. 

11. Abraham Lincoln was loved by the people as no man had been 
loved since Washington ; all felt as if some member of their own 
family, some kind and trusted friend, had been taken away. His loss 
was lamented not only in America, but throughout the civilized 
world. For a time, all local differences, all national jealousies, were 
hushed in presence of the great calamity ; and Abraham Lincoln 
passed into history acknowledged by friend and foe a statesman, 
patriot, and martyr. 



S. Of other generals? 9. What terrible event now occurred ? Describe the deed. 
What was the plan of the conspirators? Their fate? 10. How did the grovernnient go 
/>n? How was this looked upon by European nations? 11. What of the love felt for 
Abraham Lincoln ? What character will he bear in history ? 
40 



470 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES, 



CHAPTEK CCXXX. 

Lincoln's Administkation, Concluded. — The Finances 
of the Union. — Greenbacks. — Taxation. — Yolunteering . 
— Drafting. — Government Loans. — Andrew Johnson, 

1. The annual expenses of the government before the war liad been 
less than a hundred millions of dollars ; they were now perhaps two 
millions a day. There were three methods of obtaining the neces- 
sary sums : first, by taxation ; second, by borrowing ; third, by an 
issue of treasury notes, or government bank bills, these being declared 
money by law, 

2. As the people were unused to heavy taxation, it was thought 
best not to resort to it suddenly ; and as the credit of the government 
had been much impaired during Mr. Buchanan's administration, it 
Avas not believed that borrowing could be relied on for all the needs 
of the country. Five hundred millions of treasury notes were there- 
fore printed, and with these, which, from their color, soon received 
the popular name of greenbacks, the government for some time paid 
its debts. 

3. By-and-by the people were taxed, and taxation was not only 
willingly submitted to, but had been clamored for before Congress 
had dared to resort to it. The taxes of the class denominated inter- 
nal revenue, yielded two hundred millions in the last year of the war. 
As the credit of the government rose, and when its promises to pay 
had become worth their face in the open market, that is, could be 
sold at par, borrowing was largely resorted to. In three years, the 
people lent the government two thousand millions of dollars, at 
various rates of interest. 

4. In the early stages of the war, men joined the army without 
any pecuniary inducement ; afterwards, those who volunteered re- 
ceived bounties from their states or counties, and their families received 
assistance from the same sources. Still later, a draft, or conscription 
by lot, was ordered in all states which had not furnished their quota. 



CiiAP. CCXXX. — 1. "What throe methods were there of raising money? 2. What ob- 
jections were there to two of them ? What method was chosen ? What were the 
government notes called? 8. What of taxation ? Of the sal« of government bonds? 
4. What of volunteering ? Of bounty monoy ? Of drafts ? 



EUIIUI'EAN HOSTILiT 



471 



5. The more important nations of Europe desired the rebellion to 
succeed-^that is, their governments and governing classes desired it. 
The reason is obvious : they were loath to see a republic come out 
victorious from a struggle in which, thev all confessed, a monarchy 
must succumb. England, too, was anxious that her great commer- 
cial rival should fall asunder and waste its energies in intestine war- 
fare. 




PiijISIi KXr J0H:>f5.;w; 



6. Andrew Johnson was inaugurated president on the 15th of 
April, and at once entered upon the duties of his office. He retained 
the old cabinet, and, in several speeches, made soon after his acces- 
sion, led the people to believe that he was not unworthy to occupy 
the seat which he had attained, though he had not been directly 
elected to it. 



5. With which side did European nations s.vmpathize in the rebellion? Give th;^ 
reasons for this. C. Under what circumstances did the new president enter upon his 
duties ? 



472 HISTORY OF THE UNITE'D STATES. 



CHAPTER CCXXXI. 

Thk Indian Territory. — General View of the Indians of 
North America^ the West Indies and South America. 

1. In the preceding history of the occupation and settlement of 
this country by the White Eaces, we have seen the gradual disap- 
pearance of the various Indian tribes which constituted its first inhab- 
itants. The greater part of them, the tribes which inhabited the 
regions bordering on the Atlantic, are utterly extinct. The Penobscots, 
Pauttickets, Fequods, Pokanokets^ JSfarragansetts^ Mohicans^ Nip- 
mucks, so troublesome to the New England settlers, are gone, and 
the places which once knew them, shall know them no more forever. 

2. . Of the Six Nations of New York and Canada, once so powerful — 
only a few vestiges remain. The tribes of Virginia have perished, and 
those great bands, which had the title of nations — the Creels^ Choctaws, 
Cliickasaios and CJierohees, have left their original haunts, and are 
gradually losing their native characteristics, under the influence of 
civilization, in the i)lains and prairies of the Far West, 

3. This region, called the Indian Territory, lying between Kansas 
on the north, and Texas on the south, is about four hundred miles 
long from north to south, and three hundred miles from east to west, 
and contains about one hundred and seventy thousand square miles. 
It was set apart by our government as the permanent residence of the 
Indian tribes transported from the more eastern settled states. The 
whole number of inhabitants is about one hundred and twenty 
thousand, the most numerous tribes being the Oherokees, Creeks, 
Choctaws, Osages and Seminoles. 

4. These, occupying various designated portions of the territory, 
are not allowed to interfere with each other's grounds or grants. They 
have each their own laws, and are regarded as distinct nations. The 
Choctaws with whom the Chickasaws have become mixed, have a 
written constitution and laws, with their executive and judicial officers, 
>chools, churches and printing-ofiices. Agriculture is their chief em- 
ployment. 

5. The Creeks and CheroTcees have also made considerable advances 



Chap. CCXXXI.— 1. What have we seen in the preceding history? What are some of 
the Indian tribes that have become extinct? 2 What of the Six Nations? Of other 
tribes? 3. Situation of the Indian Territory ? Its extent? For what purpose has it been 
set apart ? Names of the principal Indian tribes in the Indian Territory ? What regula- 
tions are Imposed on the Indians in the Indian Territory ? What of the Choctaws ? 



THE INDIAN TERRITORY. 473 

01 civilization, especially the latter. The other transported tribes, as 
the Seminoles^ Senecas, Shaioanese^ Oneidas^ Quapaws^ Tuscaroras^ 
Delawares and Kiclcapoos^ are also improving, under the efforts of 
missionaries and schoolmasters. The native tribes, as the Omahas^ 
Otoes^ Missouris^ Pancas^ Pawnees^ and others, are in a more savage 
state. Many of them still live chiefly by robbery and hunting. The 
pursuit of the buffalo is one of their leading occupations, 

6. Beside these tribes confined to the Indian Territory, there are 
considerable bands of Blackfeet^ Assmiboins, Ghijypeiom, Sacs and 
Foxes, in our north-western wilds, which still in a great degree pre- 
serve their native habits, living by hunting, fishing and war upon each 
other. The Indians of Oregon and California, as well as the territories 
of Washington, Utah, and New Mexico, are also in a savage state, 
though the tribes are small and scattered. 

7. The ComancTies are a large tribe, occupying northern Texas and 
the vicinity. They have abundance of horses, and bear a considerable 
resemblance in their habits and manners to the roving Bedouins of 
the Eastern Continent. They are swift and skilful riders, hurl the 
spear with dexterity, and often make destructive attacks upon trav- 
ellers in the regions over which they roam. The Attaches are a power- 
ful tribe, resembling the Comanehes, and occupying tlie central portion 
of Arizona. 

8. Such has been the course of events as to the Indians within the 
boundaries of the United States. Probably their number is not one 
quarter what it was at the time of the discovery of this country. 

9. In Mexico the Indians were conquered, but not driven out by their 
conquerors ; though somewhat reduced in numbers, they have remained, 
and have mingled, to a considerable extent, with the blood of their 
conquerors. For the most part they are ignorant, superstitious, and 
degraded, submitting slavishly to the domination of the white race. 

10. In ihe West Indies, originally peo])led with perhaps a million of 
inhabitants, they have become extinct. In most parts of South Amer- 
ica, their condition is nearly the same as in Mexico, though in the 
unsettled portions there are still numerous bands in a savage state. 
Probably the Indians of South America are one-half as numerous as 
at the time the country was discovered. 

5. Of the Creeks and Cherokees? Other transported tribes? What of tlie native tribes! 
6. What of tribes in the north-western wilds? What of tribes in Oregon, California etc.? 
T. What of the Comanehes ? The Apaches ? 8. What is the probable number of the Indians 
of the United States, compared with their original number? 9. What of the Indians of 
Mexico? 10. What of the Indi:in3 of the West Indies? Of South America? 
40* 



TATISTICS OF THE UNITED STATES. 



475 




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476 



HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES, 




CAPITOL OF THli UNITED STATES AT WASHINGTON. 



CHAPTER CCXXXII. 

General Views. 

1. We have now closed our brief view of the leading political inci- 
dents in the history of the United States. We began with the first 
settlement at Jamestown in 1607. We close with a tabular view, 
which exhibits the country now (1866), as embracing thirty-six 
states, a territory of over three millions of square miles, and more 
than thirty millions of inhabitants. 

2. We have given a detail of the principal events which have at- 
tended this astonishing progress. We have sketched the early days, 
in which we have seen the feeble colonies striking root in a strange 
country, and after contending Avith hostile tribes of savage men, 
triumphing at last over the still more fatal obstacles of poverty, disease 
and climate. 

8. We have seen the Thirteen United Colonies, with about three 
millions of inhabitants, throwing off their allegiance to Great Britain, 



Chap. CCXXXII. — 1. What of the settlement at Jamestown? How long from that time 
to this ? 2. What have we seen in the preceding history ? The teacher tuill here put such 
questions on the table at page 476, as he may deem necessary. 



GENERAL VIEWS. 477 

and after a bloody and cruel struggle of eight years, successfully 
raaijitaining their independence, and taking their rank among the na- 
tions of the civilized world. 

4. We have seen the United States engaged in a second struggle 
with Great Britain, and coming out of the contest with honor. We have 
seen our government tried by factions, rebellion, and insurrection — by 
internal commotion and external war — by the strife of party, the 
vicissitudes of prosperity and adversity, and we have seen it come 
strengthened and established from these threatening evils. 

5. Under the benign influence of liberty, guaranteed to us by our 
government, we have seen our country advancing with unparalleled 
rapidity in the march of civilization. We have seen the arts spring 
up, as if developed by powers of enchantment. We have seen innu- 
merable inventions, ingenious and useful, brought to light. We have 
seen manufactures, of vast extent and wonderful ingenuity, spread 
over our land, 

6. We have seen the very elements fire, air, and water, chained to 
the car of human art, and made subservient, in a thousand forms, to 
the comfort, convenience, and luxury of society. We have seen, amid 
all this, that religion has acquired additional force over the minds of 
men — that the standard of morality is elevated — that the means of 
education are diffused, and a higher value set upon its benefits, 

7. We have seen our country, when convulsed by a mighty re- 
bellion, put forth a power to suppress it, such as no other country 
could, by the avowal of all, have exerted. We have seen that the 
love of the people for the land of their birth, and for the form of 
government under which they have so greatl}^ prospered, is strong 
enough to induce them to make any sacrifice, rather than see the one 
divided, or the other put in peril. 

8. As members of a nation thus blessed of Heaven, let us cherish 
the sentiment of love to our country, and a feeling of profound grati- 
tude for all that has been done to exalt our native land ! 



3. What have we seen as to the Thirteen Colonies ? 4. What of the second war with 
Great Britain ? What of our government ? 5, 6. What of our country as to civilization ? 
What of the domestic arts? Religion, education, and morality ? 7. What of our country 
when threatened with rebellion ? What of the sacrifices of the people ? 8. What ought 
we as residents of a country thus blessed, to do? 

>e^ The teacher may here also direct the atlention of the pupil to page 422, giving a view 
of tlte progress of the United States, and put such questions as he deems proper. 



478 



HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 




QUJiZiFJC. 



CHAPTER CCXXXIII. 

NORTHERN PARTS OF NORTH AMERICA. 

British Possessions in North America. — Nova Scotia 
New Brunswick^ Canada^ etc. 

\ . As we have now completed our view of the United States, we 
proceed to give brief notices of other parts of the American continent. 

2. British America, equal in extent to the United States, occupies 
nearly the whole of North America, which lies north of our own coun- 
try, and stretches from the Atlantic to the Pacific Ocean. The chief 
divisions are JVova Scotia^ Prince Edward''s Island^ JVew Brunswick, 
Neicfoundland, the Canadas and New Britain, or the Hud8on''s Bay 
Com,pany''s territories, to which may be added Vancouver''s Island, and 
the adjacent regions. 

8. ISTova Scotia was seen by John Cabot, in 1497, and was the first 
land discovered on the continent of America. It was originally settled 
by the French, and called Acadia, but, after changing hands several 
times, it became the permanent possession of G-reat Britain, New 



Chap. CCXXXTTT 



Extent of British Amprira? The divisions of i.ilti?h Aniprica: 



NORTHERN PORTION OF NORTH AMERICA. .J7g 

Brunswick was separated from it, and became a distinct province, in 
1784. 

4. The French appear to liave been the first to turn to account the 
discoveries of Cabot. Early in the sixteenth century, se^^eral French 
vessels sailed to the Gulf of St. Lawrence, and various attempts at 
colonization, in this quarter, were afterward made. In 1608, the 
city of Quebec — renowned in the history of these regions — was founded, 
and thus the first permanent settlement in Canada was formed. 

5. We have already stated that all the French possessions in this 
quarter were confirmed to the British by the peace of 1763. In 1791, 
Canada was divided into Upper and Lower Canada, but they have re- 
cently been again united as one province, though bearing the titles of 
Canada East and Canada West. The present capital, established in 
1859, is Ottawa^ a flourishing village at the junction of the Ottawa 
River, and the Rideau Canal. 

6. At various periods Canada has been the theatre of important 
military events. This was especially the case during the French and 
Indian war, the war of the American Revolution, and the war with 
Great Britain, from 1812 to 1815. We have already giveji sufficient 
accounts of these proceedings. 

T. In 1887, an insurrection broke out in Canada, as we have else- 
where stated, the object of which was to throw ofi^" the British yoke, 
and establish the independence of the country. The movement was, 
however, speedily checked, and most of the leaders escaped by flight. 

8. Hudson's Bay was discovered by Cabot, in 1512. For many 
years the French carried on a considerable fur trade with the countries 
lying to the westward of this bay. In 1670, the Hudson's Bay Com- 
pany was established, and soon rose to prosperity. They have now 
several stations, some on Hudson's Bay, others on the coast of Labra- 
dor, and others still farther to the north and west. The most numerous 
establishments are in the vicinity of James' Bay. The acquisition of 
furs is the chief object of these settlers. 

9. The settlement on Vancouver's Island, and the continent contig- 
uous thereto, under the direction of the Hudson's Bay Company, have 
recently become of importance. A large number of persons there are de- 
voted to the acquisition of furs, and others, recently, to agriculture. 
There is also a considerable population in the vicinity of Fraser's 
River, where rich gold mines have lately been discovered. 



8. What of Nova Scotia? New Brunswick? 4. What of the French? When was 
Quebec founded ? 5. What of Canada ? 6. Of what important events has Canada been the 
theatre? 7. What of the insurrection in Canada? 8. What of the discovery of Hudson's 
Bay? What of the Hudson's Bay Company? 9. What of the inhabitants on Vancouver's 
Island and the vioinity ? 



480 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 




DISCOVEEYOFABOATANDOTHER UKMAINS OF SOME OF SIR JOHN FRANKLIN's MEN. 



CHAPTER CCXXXIV. 

The Polar Regions. — The Esquimaux', Greenland; Rus- 
sian America. 

1. The Esquimaux. — To the north of the British settlements are 
bands of Indians, of short stature and squalid appearance, who pass 
under the general name of Esquimaux. They live chiefly by fishing, 
and in winter ride over the frozen snows in sledges drawn by dogs. 
They have no records, and aflPord us no history. They resemble 
the Samoiedes of the Eastern Continent, and are doubtless of the same 
stock. 

2. Greenland. — Still further to the north is Greenland^ formerly es- 
teemed a part of the American continent, but now ascertained to be 
an island. It was discovered, in 981, by an Icelander, and was soon 
after colonized on the eastern coast by a number of families from Ice- 
land. The colony increased rapidly, but after a short space, it disap- 
peared from the pages of history, and no trace of the inhabitants has 
since been found. 

8. Green'-land was rediscovered by Davis, in 1585, and in 1721, a 
colony was established on the western coast by a Norwegian clergy- 
man, named Hans Egede. This settlement, though small, still exists, 



Chap. CCXXXIV.— 1. What of the Esquimaux ? 2 What of Greenland? 3. When Was 
Greenland rediscovered? What of ITans Egode? What of the Greenland seas? 



THE POLAR REGIONS. 481 

and is subject to the Danish government. The seas in the vicinity of 
Greenland have long been resorted to by ships in search of whales, 
and here many strange adventures have taken place in the pursuit of 
these monsters of the deep. 

4. Russian Ameeica. — This comprises the entire north-western 
corner of North America. It is a cold, rugged region, clxiefly inhabited 
by bands of Esquimaux and tribes of other Indians. These sell their 
furs, which they collect, to the Russians, who have several trading 
stations on the coast, the principal of which is New Archangel, od. 
the island of Sit'-ka. 

5. This region was discovered in 1741, by the celebrated Vitus 
Behring, a Dane in the service of the Russians, the discoverer of the 
straits which bear his name, and separate America from Asia. Upon 
this discovery, the claim of Russia to her North American possessions 
is founded. Sitka was first settled in 1799. 

6. The chief interest which attaches to the Polar Regions, con- 
sists in the various voyages which have been undertaken to discover 
a north-west passage from the Atlantic to the Pacific. No tales of 
adventure and daring can exceed those of the many navigators who 
have attempted to make this discovery. 

7. In modern times. Parry, Ross, Back and Franklin, as well as 
the Americans, De Haven and Kane, have penetrated into this deso- 
late region of snow, ice, and tempest, and have given us vivid pictures 
of the frozen seas and bays of the Arctic Ocean, and its inhospitable 
shores. In May, 1845, as we have elsewhere stated. Captain Franklin, 
who had become a veteran in this service, was dispatched with two 
ships, the Erebus and Terror, to make one more attempt to settle the 
doubtful question. 

8. Several years passed, and nothing was heard from the expedition. 
From that time numerous ships have been sent in search of the lost 
adventurers, bu|i all without avail, till 1859, when the steamer Fox, 
dispatched by Lady Franklin, made the melancholy discovery, that 
Sir John Franklin died June 11, 1847, and in 1848, the Erebus and 
Terror were abandoned in the ice. 

9. The survivors of the expedition, one hundred and five in number, 
died one by one, from cold and exhaustion ; a boat and several of the 
skeletons, and quantities of clothing were found on the north-west 
coast of King William's Island, which appears to have been their 
tomb. 

4. What of Russian America? 5. What of Vitus Behring? Upon what does Russia 
found her claims to her North American possessions? 6.' On what is the chief interest 
attached to the Polar regions founded? 7. What, of modern discoveries ? What of Cap- 
tain Franklin ? 8. What of the expeditions to discover the fate of Sir John Franklin ? 
What of the steamer Fox ? 9. What of the survivors of Franklin's expedition. 
41 



482 



HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 




CHAPTER CCXXXV , 

THE WEST INDIES. 
St. jSalvador, Cuba., Hayti, Porto Bico^ etc. 

1. St. Sai.'-va-doe, the land first discovered by Columbus, and now 
called Gat Island^ was one of a numerous group called the Bahamas, 
These belong to the English government, and have been, in former 
times, subject to acts of violence and pillage from pirates; they particu- 
larly infested these regions somewhat more than a century ago. The 
history of these islands presents nothing of peculiar interest or impor- 
tance. 

2. Gtiba was first discovered by Columbus in 1492. It is the largest 
of the West India Islands ; and, possessing a charming climate, with 
a prolific soil, it is one of the finest islands in the world. The Indians, 
who were numerous, were conquered, in 15 II, byVe-las'-quez, a Spanish 
general, and the island was rapidly settled by the Spaniards. 

3. Under the cruelties of tliese new possessors, the aborigines were 
speedily exterminated, and Spain has continued in quiet possession of 

Chap. CCXXXV.— 1. What of St. Snlvarlor ? To what group does it belong? What 
of the Bahamas? 2. When was Cuba discovered by Columbus? What of its soil and 
climate ? When and by whom were the Indians of Cuba conquered ? 8. What has been its 
history ? 



THE WEST INDIES. ^g-j 

the island for more tliau three hundred years, excepting that it was 
captured by the British in 1762, being, however, soon relinquished. 

4, Hay'-ti^ called His-'pa-ni-o' -la by Columbus, was discovered by that 
voyager soon after he had visited Cuba. The present town of St. 
Do-min'-go was founded by him, in 1496, and is, therefore, the oldest 
town in this Western AVorld. This island called St. Domingo by tlio 
French, was divided between France and Spain, in 1722, but in 1789 
a revolution broke out, and both the Spaniards and French were 
eventually driven out by the negroes. The latter declared themselves 
independent in 1809, and under various leaders, and with repeated 
wars and revohitions, have since maintained tlieniselves in that con- 
dition. 

0. Por-to El'-co^ a beautiful and populous island at the time of its 
discovery by Columbus, in 1493, has since its first subjugation, be- 
longed to Spain. Ja-mai'-ca was originally settled by the Spaniards, but 
in 1655 it was taken by the English, and has since remained in their 
hands. This island, distinguislied for its prolific soil and genial cli- 
mate, has been the scone of several terrible earthquakes and hurri- 
canes. 

6. To the south-east of Cuba are a group of islands known under the 
name of the Car' -i-hees. The principal are An-ti'-gu-a^ Bar-ha' -does, 
To-ha'-go^ and Trin-i-dad\ which belong to Great Britain and Gua- 
da-lo'iqje' and Mar-ti-ni' -co, which belong to France. The natives of 
these islands, called Caribs, were different from those of Cuba, Porto 
Rico and Jamaica. The latter were gentle, soft and effeminate ; but 
the Caribs were fierce, enterprising and warlike. To each other they 
were mild and affectionate, but they regarded all strangers as foes, and 
made war upon them without scruple. 

7. They seemed to have made some advances in civilization, when 
Columbus discovered their islands. They were fond of liberty, and 
chose rather to die than submit to the slavery imposed upon them by 
tlieir European conquerors. Their numbers gradually diminished, and 
nothing remains of this formidable race, except a few scattered remnants. 

8. There are several other West India islands, belonging to difterent 
European powers, but their history cannot be detailed here. We can 
only remark, generally, that the West Indies, lying beneath a tropical 
sun, and abounding in the choicest vegetable productions, have still 
been the theatre of frequent scenes of rapine, plunder and bloodshed. 

4 What of Hayti ? When was St Domingo founded ? History of Hayti ? 5, What 
of Porto Eico ? To what nation does it belong? Who settled Jamaica ? To whom does 
it now belong? To what is it subject? 6. What islands lie to the south-west of Cuba? 
Which are the prmcipal Caribee islands? To whom do they belong? What of the na- 
tives ? 7. What of them when Columbus discovered thcsj islands ? S, 9. What is the his- 
tory of the West Indies- 



484 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

9. In the greedy scramble which followed the discovery of the New 
"World, they were seized without scruple, and the inhahitaDts subju- 
gated, enslaved, or butchered, as suited the humor of the invaders. 
During the contests of their European possessors, they have been often 
taken and retaken, thus sharing in all the calamities of war. 

10. These islands were the theatre of the operations of the Buccaneen 
— the most formidable bands of pirates that the world has ever known. 
About two centuries ago, a small company of these lawless men in- 
liabited the island of Tortuga, and lived either b,y the chase, or by 
plundering such vessels as they found upon the adjacent seas. 

11. They increased in numbers, and at length became the terror oi 
all the inhabitants in those regions. Their feats of skill, enterprise, 
and daring seemed to be almost miraculous. They even captured the 
city of Havana, plundered Port au Prince, and, extending their depre- 
dations to the Spanish main, carried off immense sums of gold, silver, 
and other valuable commodities. 

12. They flourished for more than half a century. The lives of some 
of these freebooters present a variety of curious and wonderful details. 
Their career, however, generally terminated in misery, and the whole 
band was at last extirpated. 



CHAPTER CCXXXVI. 

SOUTHERN PARTS OF NORTH AMERICA. 
Mexico and Guatemala, ok Centkae America. 

1. At the time of the discovery of America, Mexico was the seat of 
an extensive empire, called An-a-hu'-ac. The people were consider- 
ably advanced in civilization. They had large cities, splendid edifices, 
vast monuments, numerous arts, and a regular government. 

2. The Spaniards soon became acquainted with tlie existence of this 
country, and an enterprise was accordingly set on foot for its conquest. 
This consisted of six hundred soldiers, and was led by a daring and 
determined officer named ITer-nan'-do Cor'-tez. He landed on the coast 
in 1518, and marched toward the capital, which bore the name of 
Te-nuch-tit'-lan, now Mexico. 

3. Mon-te-zu'-mawas then upon the throne. By a series of measures 
displaying the utmost intrepidity, duplicity, and injustice, Cortez con- 

10. Who were the Bnccaneers? 11. "What of their feats? 12. How long did they 
Uoiirish? What of their career? 

Ch.'VP. CCXXXVI —1. What of Mexico at the time of the discovery of America? What 
was the former name of Mexico ? 2. Who determined to conquer the country? Wliat ofR 
cer went there in 1518? What was the former name of the city of .Alexico, the capital? 



486 



HISTUKV OF THE UNITED STATES. 



quereJ the entire empire, wliicli became subject to tiie Spanish Dominion 

^^^- - under the 

title of New 




THE GREAT RELIGIOUS TEMPLE AT MEXICO. 



4. This coun- 
try continu- 
ed for more 
than two 
centuries to 
1 be an appen- 
dage to the 
Spanish 
crown. The 
natives, for 
the most part, 
submitted to 
the Spanish 
yoke, and, 

tliough their numbers were thinned by the early wars, and further re- 
duced by the impoverishment of their country, they still amount to 
several millions. Most of them have partially adopted the Spanish 
customs and the Catholic religion, though they preserve many of 
their ancient superstitions. They are generally occupied in laborious 
pursuits, and few instances have occurred in which they have risen 
above a menial condition in society. 

5. In the year 1808, the people of Mexico rebelled against the gov- 
ernment of Spain, and determined to throw off their foreign yoke. In 
1818, a national congress declared Mexico to be independent. Spain 
made great efforts to subdue the rebellion, but without effect. The 
struggle continued with various success until 1821, when the Spanish 
army left the country. 

6. The independence of Mexico has since been recognized by Spain 
and the other leading governments of Christendom. It has been sub- 
ject, however, to internal convulsions, and can hardly be considered 
as yet in a settled state. The government is republican in form, but 
several constitutions have been adopted and repudiated since the era of 
its independence. Mexico now contains eight millions of inhabitants, 
most of whom are Indians, and mixed races. The present title of the 
country is the United States of Mexico, The Archduke Maximilian of 
Austria, has lately been proclaimed Emperor of Mexico, but the 
Mexican Government are (18G5) opposing his authority. 

3. Who was the king of the country ? How was the empire conquered? What was it 
named after its conquest ? 4. What can you say of the natives ? 5. What of the people 
of Mexico in 1808? In 1813? When did the Spanish army leave the country? 6. What 
of the independence of Mexico? What of its government? What of the population? 
What of Maximilian ? 



SOUTH xVMERICA. 487 

7. Texas formerly belonged to Mexico, and was one of the states of 
that confederacy, as we have elsewhere stated. She threw oif the 
yoke, and Mexico strenuously endeavored to recover her authority, but 
without avail. The government of Texas, which was republican, be- 
came established, and the independence of the country was recognized 
by the United States, Great Britain, etc. In 1845, it was annexed to 
the United States, and war with this country followed, as already 
related. 

8. Gua-te-ma'-la, or CentPwAL Ameeica, occupies the greater portion 
of the isthmus that connects North and South America. At the time 
of the invasion of Cortez, it was thickly peopled with Indians called 
Quiches. These had considerable cities, and presented nearly the same 
state of civilization as the Mexicans. 

9. They were conquered by Alvarado, an officer dispatched for that 
purpose by Cortez, and the country became a Spanish province. It 
remained in. this condition till the struggle for Independence com- 
menced in Mexico, when a similar effort was made by the inhabitants 
of this territory, whicli resulted in their independence. They adopted 
a republican form of government, with the title of the United States 
of Central America. 

10. These states consisted of Honduras.^ Guatemala^ San Salvador. 
Nicaragua., and Costa Rica. After a time, divisions, and hostilities 
arose among them, and in 1839 they became independent of each 
other. They have since been subject to almost constant convulsions 
or anarchy. 



CHAPTER CCXXXAai. 

SOUTH AMERICA. 

Discovery of South America hy Columbus. — Discovery of 
the Pacific hy Balboa. — Conquest of Peru. 

1. "We have already seen that Columbus discovered the mainland 
of South America in 1498. Other discoveries, in this quarter, soon 
followed. The coast was visited by Vespucius, in 1499, and, the same 

1. "What of Texas? What of the United States and Mexico? 8. Where is Guate- 
mala? Who were the Quiches? 9. Who conquered them? Give the history of the 
country. What title did the republic of Guatemala adopt? 10. What were the names 
of the states of Guatemala, or the republic of Central America? What is their present 
condition ? 

Chap. CCXXXVII. — 1. When was the mainland of South America discovered by Colum- 
bus? What of Vespucius ? Of Pinzon ? 



488 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATE.-;. 




SC'<:\K IN soFTTrt America. 



year, the shores of Brazil were visited by Pinzon, a Spanish navi- 
gator. 

2. In 1513, Balboa crossed the Isthmus of Pa-na-ma', and was tlie first 
European whose eyes rested upon the eastern borders of the Pacific 
Ocean, then called the South Sea. What a mighty discovery — for this 
is the largest ocean on the globe, and occupies nearly one-fourth part 
of its surface ! 

3. It is not easy, at this day, for us to conceive of the state of ex- 
citement in which these European navigators came to America. They 
not only looked upon it as a New World, but as one abounding in won- 
ders. They had found here a strange people, and they had discovered 
amid the tropical regions a multitude of new and interesting produc- 
tions. 

4. Flowers of the greatest beauty, spices of the rarest fragrance, 
valuable gums, rich fruits, birds of magnificent plumage, and all new 
to them, crowded upon their attention. Nature, indeed, seemed tct 
have realized here the enchantments of the fairy tales; yet, thus far, 
the avarice of the discoverers was not satisfied. Gold, silver, and 
precious stones were believed to abound in America, and the greedi- 
ness with which they were sought, carried the adventurers over sea 
and land, through flood and forest. 



2. "What of Balboa? 3. "What of the excitement of the early naTi2:ator8? 4. "What 
Interesting objects were found in America T 



CORTEZ AND PIZARRO. 



489 




MAP OF SOUTH AMERICA. 



5. Like other illusions, which haunt the overheated imagination, the 
regions of gold seemed always to be near, yet never reached. The 
pursuit was still urged, but the object was never fully attained. 

6. There were indeed two exceptions ; Cortez had found spoils of 
immense value in Mexico, but his success was to be surpassed by 
another adventurer. In 1515, Peru had been discovered, and Pizarro, 
an illiterate but daring Spanish soldier, soon after determined upon its 



5. What of the regions of gold? 6. What of Cortez? What of Pizarro? How many 
men did Pizarro take with him in 1531 for the conquest of Peru 
21* 



490 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

conquest. In 1531, lie led thither a small band of soldiers — thirty 
horse and one hundred and fifty foot. 

7. He found Peru to be an immense empire, united under a race of 
sovereigns, called In'-cas or Children of the Sun. The people were 
pacific, some living in large and handsome cities, and all subsisting 
chiefly by agriculture. They had a mild government, a gentle religion, 
and many useful arts. The reigning prince was A-ta-ha-al'-pa. 

8. Pi-zar'-ro invited him to a conference, but, when the unsuspecting 
monarch, with thousands of his attendants, came, the daring and per- 
fidious Spaniard rushed upon him and dragged him away from the 
midst of his nobles. At the same time, the artillery and muskets 
played upon the masses of the Indians, and cut them to pieces by 
thousands. It was one of the most brutal, bloody, and dastardly acts 
in all the sad tragedies of human warfare. 

9. The captive Inca oflfered to fill the room in which he was con- 
fined with gold and silver, for his ransom. This was accepted by 
Pizarro, and it was afiecting to see with what devotion the people, in 
all parts of the country, parted with their treasures to release theii 
captive chief. At length, a mass of gold and silver, to the value of 
two millions of dollars, was accumulated, and Atahualpa claimed his 
liberty. 

10. But Pizarro had no idea of fulfilling his promise. The Inca was 
subjected to a mock trial, condemned, and executed, and the ruthless 
murderer proceeded to take possession of his empire. Having con- 
quered the country, and now being gorged with plunder, Pizarro 
founded the city of Li'-ma, and became governor of the country. 

11. But his ill-gotten wealth and power were vain to their possessor. 
Hostility and strife sprung up among the band of robbers. Pizarro 
was slain by his associates, and the rest of the leaders fell, one after 
another, by violence. Let it be remembered that the most splendid and 
successful robbery on record was followed by the swiftest retribution! 

12. We may pause here a moment to reflect upon the fate which at- 
tended the three greatest names connected with the early history of 
America. Columbus discovered a new world, but he was once car- 
ried home in chains, and at last died in poverty and neglect. Cortez 
conquered an empire, but the crown did not rest upon his brow. 
Pizarro also conquered an empire, and acquired gold beyond the dreams 
of avarice, but he, soon after, expired by the assassin's blade. 



7. What did Pizarro find Peru to be ? What of the sovereigns of Peru ? What of the peo- 
ple? Who was their king? 8. Describe Pizarro's conduct. 9. What did Atahualjia 
promise to give Pizarro in order to be liberated? How was the Inca treated? 10. What 
town was founded by Pizarro? 1 1. What became of him and his associates? 12. What 
was the fate of the three great men connected with the early history of Spanish America? 



BOLIVIA, CHILI, ETC. 491 

13. Time, with its solemn jury, has judged the actions of these 
three famous men. To Columbus a wreath of immortal fame is award- 
ed; to the others, the malefactor's infamy. The way -of the transgres- 
sor is indeed hard ! 

14. Peru continued for centuries to he a Spanish province, with 
Lima for its capital. To this city, the manners, customs, and refine- 
ments of Spain were transferred, and thence partially diffused to several 
portions of the province. The country became independent, threw off 
the yoke of Spain in 1821, and, after a protracted struggle, it became 
an independent republic. 



CHAPTER CCXXXVIII. 

South America, Continued. — Bolivia. — Chili. — The Ar- 
gentine Rej) uhlic. — Parag uay. — Uruguay. — Brazil. — 
Guiana. — Eqiiador^ New Granada^ and Venezuela. 

1. Bo-liy'-i-a, now an independent state, and lying between Peru 
and Chili, was originally a part of Peru, and continued so until 1824. 
After a battle between the patriot army and the royalists, in which 
the latter were defeated, the people declared themselves independent. 
This occurred July, 1825. The celebrated Bolivar furnished them a 
scheme of a constitution, which was adopted, and the name of the 
Liberator was given to the republic, 

2. Chil'-i was discovered by Al-ma'-gro, one of the associates of Pi- 
zarro, in 1537. He penetrated into the country with a small force, and 
was at first well received by the natives ; but he was soon forced to re- 
turn. In 1540, another army was sent thither, under Val-di'-vi-a, who 
was fiercely opposed, especially by the A-rau-ca' -ni-ans led by the re- 
nowned Cau-pol'-i-can. In a great battle, Yaldivia was defeated, taken 
prisoner, and afterward executed. 

8. The country, however, along the coast was conquered by the 
Spaniards, though the Araucanians, have ever continued to maintain 
their independence. Chili remained as one of tiie Spanish provinces 
till the movement for independence, in 1810, which resulted in the es- 
tablishment of a republican government, about the year 1817. 

4. From Chili, southward, to Cape Horn, the country called Pa-ta- 

13. What is the decision of ttmc ? 14. What of Peru ? What of Lima ? Whexi did the 
country become independent? 

Chap. CCXXXVIII. — 1. What of Bolivia ? When did it become independent ? What waa 
done by Bolivar? 2. When and by whom was Chili discovered? Who vi^ent there in 
1540? What became of Valdivia? 3. Have the Araucanians ever been conquered? 
What further of Chili ? 



492 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES, 

go'-ni-a is for the most part cold, sterile, and desolate. There is no 
nation with fixed abodes or an established government, here. The 
country is occupied by various tribes of savages, among whom the 
Patagonians, famous for their large stature, are the most noted. Along 
the gloomy shores of Cape Horn, there is a race, of diminutive size 
and squalid aspect, who shiver amid the sleety tempests of these re- 
gions, living chiefly upon the productions of the sea. These bear the 
name of Fuegians. 

5. The Ae-gex-tine' Republic, bounded on the west by Chili, and on 
the east by the Atlantic, Paraguay, and Brazil, formerly bore the title 
of Buenos Ayres. This, too, was one of the early provinces of Spain, 
and continued subject to that country till 1811, when the people 
formed a government for themselves. From that period, a constant 
succession of convulsions has followed. At the present time, 1859, 
the country is divided into two governments, Buenos Ayres and the 
Argentine Confederation. 

6. Par-a-guay', one of the finest regions on the face of the globe, was 
early occupied by the Spaniards, and became subject to their sway. 
The Jesuit missionaries took great pains to introduce civilization and 
Christianity among the Indians in this quarter, and, it is believed, with 
some success. They had schools, and introduced music among the 
youth, who became proficients in singing. The Jesuits, however, were 
expelled in 1767, and the Indians relapsed into the savage state. 

7. When the provinces of Bu-e'-nos Ay'-res threw oflf the Spanish yoke 
in 1810, the people of Paraguay refused to acknowledge their author- 
ity, and established a government for themselves. About the year 
1820, Dr. Francia assumed all the powers of government, and became 
dictator of the country. lie continued to exercise unlimited sway till 
the year 1842, when he died. His government was harsh, but it 
secured that tranquillity which the independent states of South Amer- 
ica have not enjoyed. 

8. For several years past, the government has been in the hands 
of Lo'-pez, who administers the government very much in the 
manner of Francia. An attack having been made upon the United 
States vessel. Water-witch, in this country, an expedition was sent 
thither in 1858, to demand satisfaction. This was rendered, and 
amicable relations between the two countries restored, 

9. U-ru-guay', formerly a part of Buenos Ayres, became independent 
in 1812, and is the smallest of the South American republics. 



4. What of the country south of Chili ? What of the Patagonians ? What of the Fue- 
gians? 5. Where is the Argrentinc llepublic? What of this country? 6. What of Par- 
tguay? The Jesuits? When were they expelled ? 7. What of the people of Paraguay? 
What of Dr. Francia? His government ? Lopez? 8. What of Uruguay? 



THE ABORIGINES. 493 

9. Bea-zil', occupying nearly one-third part of the South American 
continent, and a space nearly equal to the surface of Europe, fell to 
the lot of Portugal. It was settled about the year 1500, and rapidly 
advanced in population. It was ruled by provincial governors till 1806, 
when the king of Portugal fled thither to escape from the French, who 
had invaded his kingdom. He returned in 1821, leaving his son Don 
Pedro, upon the throne. In 1823, Brazil became an independent empire. 

10. Gui-a'-na, lying on the north-eastern coast, is divided between the 
Dutch, French, and English. Its early history is distinguished by the 
expedition of Sir Walter Raleigh, who visited the country in 1595, in 
search of El Dorado. This was a kingdom, said to exist in the interior 
of South America, which surpassed all other countries in gold, silver, 
and precious stones. But this tale proved to be a fable, and the name 
of the imaginary kingdom is a modern byword, significant of idle and 
extravagant expectations of wealth. The history of Guiana presents 
little beside, either interesting or instructive. 

11. To the north of Peru and Brazil are the three republics of 
E-qua-dor', New Gke-xa'-da and Vex-e-zu-e'-la. This whole coun- 
try belonged to Spain, and constituted several provinces. They partici- 
pated in the desire for independence which pervaded the other coun- 
tries in this quarter, and, consequently, threw off the Spanish yoke. 

12. In the struggles which followed, the celebrated Simon Bolivar 
obtained great distinction ; the three republics were united under one 
government, with the title of Go-lorn' -Ha, in 1809, and Bol'-i-var, 
honored wdth the title of Liberator, was entrusted with the supreme 
authority. This connection has since been dissolved, the title of Colom- 
bia is erased from the maps, and the three republics that we have 
named now exist under three distinct organizations. 



CHAPTER CCXXXIX. 

Conclusion. — The Indian Race^ or Aborigines of America. 
— Whence came they f 

1. We have now completed our history of the Western World, since 
its discovery by Columbus. This lies within the compass of less than 
four centuries, and presents many topics for profound reflection. We 

9. What of Brazil? When was it settled? What took place in 1806? Who is the 
reigning sovereign? 10. How is Guiana divided ? Whai of its early history? What of 
El Dorado? 11. What countries lie north of Brazil? What is their Jiistory ? 12. What 
of Simon Bolivar? What constituted Colombia? What change ha» taken place? 

Chap. CCXXXIX. — 1. How long has America been discovered? 
42 



494 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

have already adverted to the fate of the three extraordinary men who 
figure in the foreground of the early history of the continent. 

2. We may add here that Spain, the greedy spoiler, who obtained 
possession of nearly the whole of South America and the finest por- 
tions of North America, has not now an inch of territory upon either. 
"When she discovered the New World, she was a great, powerful, and 
energetic nation, taking a lead in arts and arms. Glutted with con- 
quest and treasure, she became feeble and effeminate, and at last sunk 
into a state of indolence, ignorance, and imbecility. 

3. In America, we have seen the race of Red Men vanish or dimin- 
ish before the march of European population. In the West Indies, and 
parts of North and South America, the free Indian has given place to 
the African slave. There is, generally, a tendency to the annihilation 
of the aborigines of America, and the substitution of the white race 
in their stead. Not many centuries will pass before the American 
Indian will exist only in the pages of history. 

4. The question then, as now, will be asked, " Whence came these 
'people .?" It will be easy to tell their fate, for it will be recorded to 
the everlasting shame of civilized man ; but their origin must continue 
to rest in doubt or obscurity. 

5. The Indians of Mexico and Peru had reached an advanced state 
of civilization. Though essentially distinct, they had many things in 
comracm, and many things, also, which bore a strict analogy to the 
manners, customs, and opinions of the Eastern Continent. They placed 
a high value upon gold, silver, and precious stones; they employed 
these for ornaments, and wrouglit them into various forms. 

6. The Mexicans had computations of time similar to our own. The 
Peruvians worshipped the sun, like the Egyptians and Persians. They 
both liad styles of architecture resembling those of the East. They had 
sculptures, images, and hieroglyphics, reminding every beholder of the 
antiquities which lie scattered along the Nile. Whence these remark- 
able resemblances and coincidences? 

7. We can only account for many things visible among the Indiana 
of America, by supposing that, at some period, doubtless very remote, 
they had communication with the nations of the Eastern Continent. 
The geography of the country, as well as the credible traditions of the 
Mexicans, indeed, lead us to believe that America was peopled, ages 
ago, by emigrants from Asia, by way of Behring's Straits. 

2. What is the fact in i-egard to Spain ? 3. What of the Red Men ? What is the ten- 
dency in regard to the aborigines? 4. What of their origin ? 5. What of the Indians of 
Me-ico and Peru ? 6, 7. How did they resemble the nations of the Eastern Continent? 
What conjectures can we form 7 



SUPPLEMENT 



DECLARATION OF INDEPENDENCE. 

A DECLARATION BY THE REPRESENTATIVES OP THE UNITED STATES OF 
AMERICA, IN CONGRESS ASSEMBLED, ADOPTED JULY 4, 1776. 

When, in the course of human evpnts, it hocomes necessary for one people to dissolv* 
the political hands which have conn-'Cted them with another, and to assume, among thd 
powers ot the earth, tlie separate and equal station, to wliich the laws of nature, and of 
nature's God entitle them, a decent respect to the opinions of mankind requires that 
they should declare the causes wliich impel them to the separation. 

\Ve hold these truths to be self-evident — that all men are created equal; that they 
are endowed by their Creator with certain inalienable rights; that among these are life, 
liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. That, to secure these rights, governments are 
institixted among men. deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed; 
tliat, whenever any form of government be omes destructive of these ends, it is tiie 
riglit of the people to alter or abolish it, and to institute a new government, laying its 
foundations on such principles, and organizing its powers in such form, as to them s'hall 
seem most likely t) eff.'Ct their safety and happiness. Prudence, indeed, will dictate 
that governments long established should not bo changed for light and transii-nt causes; 
and. aci'oi-dingly, all experience hath shown that mankind are more disposed to suffer, 
while evils are snfferable, than to right themselves by aboli.-^hing the forms to which 
they are accustomed. But when a long train of abuses and usurpations, pursuing inva- 
riably the same object, evinces a des-re to rcdnr-e them under absolute despotism, it is 
tiieir riirht, it is their duty, to throw off such government, and to provide new guards for 
their future security. Such has been the patient sufferance of these colonies, and such 
is now the neces>ity which constrains them to alter their former systems of govei-nment. 
The history of the present king of Gre.at Britain, is a history of'repeated injtnies and 
usurpations, all having in direct object the establishment of an absolute tyranny over 
these Slates. To prove this, let fact's be submitted to a candid world. 

He has refused his assent to laws the most wholesome and necessary for the public 
good. 

lie has forbidden his governors to pass laws of immediate and pressing importance, 
unless suspended in their operations till his assent should be obtained; and, when so 
6u.spi-n(U'd, he has utterly neglected to attend to them. 

He has refused to pass other laws for the accommodation of large districts of people, 
unless those people would rtdinquish the right of representation in the Legislature — a 
right inestimable to them, and formidable to "tyrants <)nly. 

He has called together legislative bodies at places unusual, uncomfortable, and dis- 
tant from the repository of their public records, for the sole purpose of fatiguing them 
Into compliance with his measures. 

He has dissolved representative houses repeatedly, for opposing, with manly firm- 
Jicss, his invasions on the rights of the peo])le. 



496 DECLARATION OF INDEPENDENCE. 

He has refused, for a long time after such dissohitions, to cause others to be elected, 
whereby the legislative powers, incapable of annihilation, have returned to the people 
at large for their exercise; the state reuiaining, in the mean time, exposed to all the 
dangers of invasions from without, and convulsions within. 

He has endeavored to prevent the population of these states; for that purpose ob- 
structing the laws for the naturalization of foreigners; refusing to pa.'^s others to 
encourage their migration hither, and raising the conditions of new appropriations of 
lands. 

He has obstructed the administration of justice, by refusing his assent to laws for 
establishing judiciary powers. 

He has made judges dependent on his will alone for the tenure of their offices, and 
the amount and payment of their salaries. 

He has erected a multitude of new offices, and sent hither swarms of officers to 
harass our people and eat out their substance. 

He has kept among us, in times of peace, standing armies, without the consent of our 
legislatures. 

He has affected to render the military independent of, and superior to, the civil 
power. 

He has combined with others to subject us to a jurisdiction foreign to our consti- 
tutions, and unacknowledged by our laws; giving his assent to their acts of pretended 
legislation : 

For quartering laree bodies of armed troops among us; 

For protecting them, by a mock trial, from punishment for any murders which 
they should commit on the inhabitants of these states ; 

For cutting off our trade with all parts of the world; 

For imposing taxes on us without our consent; 

For depriving us, in many cases, of the benefits of trial by jury ; 

For transporting us beyond seas, to be tried for pretended offences ; 

For abolishing the free system of English laws in a neighboring province, establish- 
ing therein an arbitrary government, and enlarging its boundaries,' so as to render it at 
once an example and fit instrument for introducing the same absolute rule into these 
colonies; 

For taking away our charters, abolishing our most valuable laws, and altering, funda« 
mentally, the forms of our governments; 

For suspending our ownlegislatures, and declaring themselves invested with power 
to legislate for us in all cases whatsoever. 

He has abdicated government here, by declaring us out of his protection, and wag- 
ing war against us. 

He has plundered our seas, ravaged our coasts, burned our towns, and destroyed the 
lives of our people. 

He is at this time transporting large armies of foreign mercenaries, to complete the 
works of death, desolation, and tyranny, already begun with circumstances of cruelty 
and perfidy scarcely i)aralleled in the most barbarous ages, and totally unworthy the 
head of a civilized nation. 

He has constrained our fellow-citizens, tak^n captive on the high seas, to bear arms 
against their country, to become the executioners of their fiieuds and brethren, or to fall 
themselves by their hands. 

He has excited domestic insurrection among us, and has endeavored to bring on the 
inhabitants of our frontiers, the merciless Indian savages, whose known rule of warfare 
is an undistinguished destruction of all ages, sexes, and conditions. 

In every stage of these oppressions we have petitioned for redress in the most 
humlde terms; our repeated petitions have been answered only by repeated injury. A 
prince whose character is thus marked by every act which may define a tyrant, is unfit 
to be the ruler of a free people. 

Nor have we been wanting in our attentions to our British brethren. We have 
warned them, from time to time, of attempts by their legislature to extend an unwar- 
rantable jurisdiction over us. We have reminded tliem of the circumstances of our emi- 
gration and settlement here. We have ajipealed to their native justice and magnanimity, 
and we have conjured them by the ties of our common kindred, to disavow tUese usur- 
pations, which would inevitably interrupt our connections and correspondence. They, 
too, have been deaf to cne voice of justice and of consanguinity. We must, therefore, 
acquiesce in the necessity which denounces our separation, and hold them as we hold the 
rest of mankind — enemies in war — in peace, friends. 

We, therefore, the representatives of the United States of America, in general Con- 
gress assembled, appealing to the Supreme Judge of the world for the rectitude of our 
intentions, do, in the name and by the autliority of the good people of these colonies, 
S'denmly publish and declare that "these united colonies are, and of right ouglit to \)e. free 
an<l independent states; that they arc. absolved from all allegiance to the British crown, 
and that all political connection between them and the state of Great Britain, is, and 
ought to be, totally dissolved, and that, as free and independent states, they have full 
power to levy war, conclude peace, contract alliances, establish commerce, and do all 
other acts and things which independent states may of right do. And for the support of 



ARTICLES OF CONFEDERATION. 



497 



this Declaration, with a firm reliance on the protection of Divine Providence, we mutu- 
ally pledge to each other our lives, our fortunes, and our sacred honor. 

Signed by 

JOHN HANCOCK, of Massachusetts. 



NEW HAMP8HIKE. 

Josiah Bartlett, 
William Whij.ple, 
Matthew Thornton. 

MASSACHTTSETTS BAT. 

Samuel Adams, 
John Adams, 
Kobert Treat Paine, 
Elbridge Gerry. 

KHODE ISLAND, ETC. 

Stephen Hopkins, 
William Ellery. 

CONNECTICUT. 

Roger Sherman, 
Sainuel Huntingdon, 
William Williams, 
Oliver Wolcott. 

NEV/ TOKK. 

William Floyd, 
Philip Livingston, 
Francis Lewis, 
Lewis Morris. 



NEW JERSEY. 

Richard Stockton, 
John Witherspoon, 
Francis Hupkirson, 
John Hart, 
Abraham Clark. 

PENNSYLVANIA. 

Robert Morris, 
Benjamin Rush, 
Benjamin Franklin, 
John Morton, 
George Clymer, 
James Smith, 
George Taylor, 
James Wilson, 
George Ross. 

DELAWARE. 

Caesar Rodney, 
George Read. 
Thomas M'Kean. 

MARYLAND. 

Samuel (. base, 
William Paca, 



Thomas Stone, 

C. Carroll, of CarroUton. 

VIRGINIA, 

George Wythe, 
Richard Henry Lee, 
Thomas Jefferson, 
Benjamin Harrison, 
Thomas Nels.on, Jr. 
Francis Lightfoot Lee, 
Carter Braxton. 

NORTH CAROLINA. 

William Hooper, 
Joseph Hewes, 
John Penu. 

SOUTH CAROLINA. 

Edward Rutledge, 
Thomas Hey ward, Jr., 
Thomas Lynch, Jr., 
Arthur Middleton. 

GEORGIA. 

Burton Gwinnett, 
Lyman Hall, 
George Walton. 



AETICLES OF COETEDEKATIO^ 



And perpetual union, between the states of New Hampshire, Massachusetts Bay, Rhode 
Island and Pi-ovldence Plantations, Connecticut, New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, 
Delaware, Maryland, Virginia, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Georgia. 

ARTICLE I. 

The style of this confederacy shall be, "Tue United States of America." 
ARTICLE IL 

Each state retains its sovereignty, freedom, and independence, and every power, j :i i.>- 
diction, and right, which is not by this confederation, expressly delegated to the I'nited 
States in congress assembled. 

ARTICLE IIL 

The said states hereby severally enter into a firm league of friendship with each other, 
for their common defence, the security of their liberties, and their mutual and general 
welfare, binding themselves to assist each other against all force offered to, or attacks 
made upon them, or any of them, on account of religion, sovereignty, trade, or any other 
pretence whatever. 

ARTICLE lY. 

The better to secure and perpetuate mutual friendship and intercourse among the 
people of the different states in this Union, the free inhabitants of each of these states, 
paupers, vagabonds, and fugitives from justice excepted, shall be entitled to all privileges 

42 ^t 



498 ARTICLES OF CONFEDERATION. 

anfl iminunities of free citizens, in the several states; and the people of each state shall 
have free ingress and regress to and from any other state ; and shall enjoy therein all the 
privileges of trade and commerce, subject to the same duties, impositions, and restric- 
tions, as the inhabitants thereof respectively; provided, that such j-estriction shall not 
extend so far as to prevent the removal of property imported into any state, to any ()ther 
state of which the owner is an inhabitant; provided, also, that no imposition, duties, or 
restriction, shall be laid by any state, on the property of the United States, or either of 
them. 

If any person guilty of, or charged with, treason, felony, or other high misdemeanor, 
in any state, shall flee from justice, and be found in any of the United States, he shall, 
upon demand of the governor or executive power of the state from which he fled, be do . 
livered up, and removed to the state having jurisdiction of his oftence. 

Full foith and credit shall be given in each of these states to the records, acts, and judi. 
cial proceedings, of the courts and magistrates of every other state. 

AETICLE V. 

For the more convenient management of tlie general interests of the United Stat«s. 
delegates shall be annually appoiiilc(l in such i:ianner as the legislature of each state shall 
direct, to meet in congress on the tirst Mduday in November, in every year, with a power 
reserved to each state to recall its didcgatcs, or any of them, at any time within the year, 
and send others in their stead, for the remainder of the year. 

No state shall be represented in Conirress by less than two, nor by more than seven, 
members; and no person shall be capil)le of being a delegate for more than three years 
in any term of six years: nor shall any person, being a delegate, be capable of holding 
any office under the United States, for which he, or another for his benefit, receives any 
salary, fees, or emolument of any kind. 

Each state shall maintain its own delegates in a meeting of the states, and while they 
act as members of the committee of the states. 

In determining questions in the United States, in congress assembled, each state shall 
have one vote. 

Freedom of speech and debate in congress shall not be impeached or questioced, in any 
court or place out of congress; and the members of congress shall be protectc^d in their 
persons froui arrests and imprisonment, during the time of their going to, and from, and 
attendance on, congress, except for treason, felony, or breach of the pec.ce. 

AETICLE VI. 

No state, without the consent of the United States in congress assembled, shall send 
any embassy to, or receive any embassy from, or enter into any conference, agreement, 
alliance, or treaty, with any king, prince, or state; nor shall any person, hold ng any 
office of profit, or trust, uncler the United States, or any of them, accept of any present, 
emolument, office, or title, of any kind whatever, from any king, prince, or foreign state; 
nor shall the United States in congress assembled, or any of them, grant any title of 
nobility. 

No two or more states shall enter into any treaty, confederation, or alliance whatever, 
between them, without the consent of the United States in congress assembled, specify- 
ing accurately the purposes for which the same is to be entered into, and hoAV long it 
Bhall continue. 

No state shall lay any imposts or duties, which may interfere with any stipulations in 
treaties entered into, by the United States in congress assembled, with any king, prince, 
or state, in pursuance of any treaties, already proposed by congress to the courts of France 
and Spain. 

No vessels of war shall be kept up, in time of peace, by any state, except such number 
only, as shall be deemed necessary, by the United States in consrress assembled, for the 
defence of such state, or its trade; nor shall any body of forces be kept up by any state, 
in time of peace, except such number only, as in the judgment of the United States in 
congress assembled, shall be deemed requisite to garrison the forts necessary for the 
defence of such state; but every state shall always keep up a well-regulated and disci- 
plined militia, sufliciently armed and accoutred; and shall provide and constantly have 
ready for use, in public stores, a due number of field-pieces and tents, and a proper quan- 
tity of arms, ammunition, and camp equipage. 

No state shall engage in any war, without the consent of the United States in congress 
assembled, unless such state be actually invaded by enemies, or shall have received cer- 
tain advice of a resolution being formed by some nation of Indians to invade such state, 
and the danger is so imminent as not to admit of a deltiy till the United States in congress 
assembled can be consulted ; nor shall any state grant commissions to any ship or vessels 
of war, nor letters of marque or reprisal, except it be after a declaration of war by the 
United States in congi-ess assembled; and then only against the kingdom or state, and 
the subjects thereof, against which war has been so declared, and under such regulations 
as shall be established by the United States in congress assembled; unless such state be 



ARTICLES OF C ONFEDEE AT ION. ^(09 

iflfested by pirates, in which vessels of -war may be fitted out for that occasion, and kept 
so long as the danger shall continue, or until the United States in congress assembled 
shall determine otherwise. 

AETICLE VII. 

When land forces are raised by any state for the common defence, all officers of, or 
under, the rank of colonel, shall be ap|)ointed by the legislature ot each state respectively 
by whom such forces shall be raised, or in such manner as such state shall direct • and ali 
vacancies shall be filled up by the state which first made the appointment. 

APwTICLE VIII. 

All charges of war, atid all other expenses that shall be incurred for the common 
defence, or general welfare, and allowed by the United States in congress assembled, 
shall be defrayed out of a common treasury, which shall be supplied by the several 
states in proportion to the value of all land within each state, granted to. or surveved for, 
any person, as such land and the buildings and improvements thereon shall be estimated^ 
according to such mode as the United States in congress assembled shall, from time to 
time, direct and appoint. The taxes for paying that proportion, shall be laid and levied 
by the authority and direction of the legislatures of the several states, within the time 
agreed upon by the United States in congress assembled. 

AETICLE IX. 

The United States in congress assembled, shall have the sole and exclusive right and 
power of determining on peace and war, except in the cases n^entioned in the sixth 
article; of sending ami receiving ambassadors : t-ntering into treaties and alliances ; pro- 
vided that no treaty of commerce shall be made, whereby the legislative power of the 
respective states shall be restrained from imposing such imposts and duties on foreigners 
as their own people are subjected to, or from prohibiting the exportation or importation 
of any species of goods or commodities whatever: of establishing rules for decidinir, in all 
cases, what captures on land or water shall be legal; and in what manner prizes, taken 
by hmd or naval forces, in the service of the United States, shall be divided or appropri- 
ated: of granting letters of marque and reprisal, in times of peace: appointing courts for 
the trial of p racies and felonies committed on the high seas; and establishing courts for 
receiving and determining, finally, appeals in all cases of captures; provided, that no 
member of congn-ss shall be appointed a judge of any of the said courts. 

The United States in congress assembled shall also be the last resort, on appeal, in all 
disputes antl ditferences now subsisting, or that hereafter may arise, between two or 
more states, concerning boundary, jurisdiction, or any other cause whatever; which 
authority shall always be exercised "in the manner following: whenever the legislative 
or executive authority, or lawful agent, of any state, in controversy with another, shall 
present a petition to congress, stating the matter in question, and praying lor a hearing, 
notice thereof shall be given, by order of congress, to the legislative or executive author- 
ity of the other state in controversy; and a day assigned for" the appearance of the parties 
by their lawful agents, who shall then be directed to a])point, by joint consent, commis- 
sioners or judges, to constitute a court for hearing and determining the matter in question : 
but if they cannot ugvee, congress shall name throe persons, out of each of the United 
States; and from the list of such perscms, each party shall alternately strike out one, the 
petitioners beginning, until the number shall be reduced to thirteen; and from that 
number, not less than seven, nor more than nine, names, as congress shall direct, shall, 
in the presence of congress, be drawn out, by lot; and the persons whose names shall bo 
so drawn, or any five of them, shall be commissioners or judges, to hear and finally 
determine the controversy, so always as a major part of the judges, who shall hear the 
cause, shall agree in the determination. And 'if either party shall neglect to attend at 
the day appointed, without showing reasons which congress shall judge sufficient, or 
being present shall refuse to strike, the congi-oss shall proceed to nominate three persons 
out of each state ; and the secretary of congress shall strike in behalf of such p irty absent 
or refusing; and the judgment and sentence of the court, to be appointed in the manner 
before prescribed, shall be final and conclusive. And if any of the parties shall refuse to 
submit to the authority of such court, or to appear, or defend their claim or cause, the 
court shall, nevertheless, proceed to pronounce sentence or judgment, which shall in like 
manner be final and decisive; the judgment, or sentence, and other proceedings, being, 
in either case, transmitted to congress and lodged among the acts of congress, for the 
security of the parties concerned : provided, that every commissioner, before he sits in 
judgment, shall take an oath, to be administered by one of the judges of the supreme or 
superior court of the state, where the cause shall be tried, "'well and truly to hear and 
determine the matter in q -estion, according to the best of his judgment, without favor, 
affection, or hope of reward:" provided, also, that no state shall be deprived of taritory 
for the benefit of the United States. 

All controversies concerning the private right of soil claimed under different gi-uuts of 
40 - 



500 



ARTICLES OF C O In F E D EE A T I O N. 



two or more states, -whose jurisdictions, as they may respect such lands and the states 
which passed such grants, are adjusted, the said grants, or either of them, being at the 
same time claimed to have originated antecedent to such settlement of jurisdiction, shall, 
on the petition of either party to the congress of the United St.-ites, bi- finally determined, 
as near as may be, in the same manner as is before prescribed lor deciding disputes 
respecting territorial jurisdiction between different states. 

The United States in congress assembled shall also have the sole and exclusive right 
and power of regulating the alloy and value of coin struck by their own authority, or by 
that of the respective states : fixintr the standard ot weights and measuri-s throughout the 
United States: regulat ng the trade and managing all atfairs wiih the Indians, not mem- 
bers of any of the states ; provided that the legislative riglit of any state within its own 
limits be not infiinged or violated: establishing and r(;guiatingpi>&t-oflicesfrom one state 
to another, throughout all the United States, and exacting such jxistage on tbe pnpers 
passinii through the same as may be requisite to defray the expenses of the said othce : 
appointing all officers of the land forces in the service of the United States, exci'pting 
regimental officers: appomtmg all the officers of the naval forces, and conmnssioning all 
officers whatever in tlie service of the United States: making rules for the government 
and regulation of the land and naval forces, and directing their operations. 

The United States in congress assembled shall have authority to appoint a committee, 
to sit in the recess of congress, to be denominated a commitiek of the 'stated, and to con- 
sist of one delegate from each state; and to appoint such other committees and ci\il 
officers as may be necessary for managimi' the general affairs of the Un ted States under 
their direction : to appoint one of their number to preside ; provided, that no person be 
allowed to serve in the office of president more than one year m any term of tliree years. 
To ascertain the necessary sums of money to be raised for the service of the United States, 
and to appropriate and apply the same for defraying the public expenses: to borrow 
money, or emit bills on the credit of the United States, transmitting every half year to 
the respective states an account of the sums of money so borrowed or emitted: to build 
and equip a navy: to agree itpon the number of land forces, and to make requisitions 
frcmi each state for its quota, in proportion to the number of white inhabitants in sucli 
state, which requisition shall be binding; and thereupon the legislati;re of each state 
shall appoint the regimental officers, raise the men, and clothe, arm, and equip them, in 
a soldierlike manner, at the expense of the United States; and the officers and men so 
clothed, armed, and equipped, shall march to the place appointed, and within the time 
agreed on, by the United States in congress assembled; but if the United States in con- 
gress assembled shall, on consideration of circumstances, judge proper that any state 
should not raise men, or should raise a smalh-r number than its quota, and that any other 
state should raise a greater number of men than its quota thereof, such extra number 
shall be raised, officered, clothed, armed, and equipped, in the same manner as the quota 
of such state ; unless the legislature of such state shall judge that such extra number can- 
not be safely spared out of the same ; in which case they shall raise, oflicer, clothe, arm, 
and equip, as man}" of such extra number as they judge can be safely spared: and the 
officers and men so clothed, armed, and equipped, shall march to the place appointed, and 
within the time agreed on. by the Urited States in congress assembled. 

Tiie United States in congress asseml;led shall never engaire in a war; nor grant letters 
of marque and reprisal in time of peace ; nor enter into any treaties or alliances ; nor coin 
money; nor regulate the value thereof; nor ascertain the sums and expenses necessary 
for the defence" and wellare of the Un ted States, or any cf them ; nor emit bills; nor 
borrow money on the credit of the ITnited States; nor appropriate money; nor agree 
upon the number of vessels of war to be built or purchased, or the number of land or sea 
forces to be raised ; nor appoint a commander-in-chief of the army or navy ; unless nine 
states assent to the same ; nor shall a question on any other point, except for adjourning 
from day to day. be determined, unless by the votes of a majority of the United States in 
congress assembled. 

The congress of the United States shall have power to adjourn to any time within the 
year, and to any place within the United States, so that no period of adjournment be for 
a longer duration than the space of six months; and shall publish the journal of their 
proceedings monthly, except such parts thereof relating to treaties, alliances, or military 
operations^ as in their judgment require secrecy; and the yeas and nays of the delegates 
of each state, on any question, shall be entered on the journal, when it is desired by any 
delegate ; and the delegates of a state, or any of them, at his or their request, shall be lur 
nished with a transcript of the said journal, except such parts as are above excepted, to 
lay before the legislatures of the several states. 

ARTICLE X. 

The committee of the states, or any nine of them, shall be authorized to execute, in 
the recess of congiess, such of the powers of congress as the United States in congress 
assembled, by the consent of nine states, shall, from tiuie to time, think expedient to vest 
them with; provided. that no power be delegated to the said committee, for the exercise 
of which, by the articles of confederation, the voice of nine states in the congress of tbe 
United States assembled is requisite. 



CONSTITUTION OF THE UNITED STATEH. 501 

ARTICLE XI. 

Canada, acceding to this confederation, and joining in the measures of the United States; 
shall be admitted into, and entitled to all the advantages of this Union. But no othei 
yolony shall be admitted into the same, unless such admission be agreed to by nine states. 

ARTICLE XIL 

All bills of credit emitted, moneys borrowed, and debts contracted, by or under th« 
authority of congress, before the assembling of the United States, in pursuance of the preS' 
ent confederation, shall be deemed and considered as a charge against the United States, 
fir payment and satisfaction whereof, the said United States, and the public faith, ar« 
hereby solemnly pledged. 

ARTICLE XIII. 

Every state shall abide by the determinations of the United States in congress assem- 
bled, on all questions which, by this confederation, are submitted to them. And the 
articles of this confederation shall be inviolably observed by every state; and the Unioq 
shall be perpetual. Nor shall any alterat on at any time hereafter be made in any of 
them, unless such alteration be agreed to. in a congress of the United States, and be after- 
wards confirmed by the legislatures of every state. 

And whereas, it hath pleased the great Governor of the world to Incline the hearts of 
the letrislatures we respectively represent in congress to approve of, and to authorize us 
to ratify, the said articles of confederation and perpetual union: 

Know Ye, That we, the undersigned delegates, by virtue of the power and authority 
to us given for that purpose, do, by these presents, in the name, and in behalf, of our 
respective constituents, fully and entirely ratify and confirm each and every ol the said 
articles of confederation and perpetual union, and all and singular the matters and things 
therein contained. And we do further solemnly plight and engage thefeith of our 
respective constituents, that they shall abide by the determinations oYthe United States 
in congress assembled, on all questions, which, by the said confederation, are submitted 
to them; and that the articles thereof shall be inviolably observed by the states we 
respectively represent; and that tlie union shall be perpetual. 

In witness whereof, we have heretinto set our hands in congress. 

Done at Philadelphia, in the state of Pennsylvania, the ninth day of July, in the year of 
our Lord one thousand seven hundred and seventy-eight, and in the third year of the 
Independence of America. 



COlSrSTITUTION OF THE UNITED STATES. 

We, the People of the United States, in order to form a more perfect union, establish 
justice, insure domestic tranquillity, provide for the common defence, promote the 
general welfare, and si'cure the blessings of liberty to ourselves and our posterity, 
do ordain and establish this Constitution for the United States of America. 

ARTICLE L 

Section 1. All legislative powers herein granted shall be vested in a Congress of the 
United States, which shall consist of a Senate and House of Representatives. 

SK<rnoN 2. The House of Rejiresentatives shall be composed of members chosen every 
second year by the people of the sever.al states, and the electors in each state shall have 
the qualifications requisite for electors of the most numerous branch of the state legis- 
lature. 

No person shall be a representative who shall not have attained to the age of twenty- 
five years, and been seven years a c.tizen of the United States, and who shad not, when 
elected, be an inhabitant of that state in which he shall be chosen. 

Representatives and direct taxes shall be apportioned among the several states which 
may be included within this Union, according to their respective numbers, which shall 
be determined by adding to the whole number of free persons, including those bound to 
service for a term of years, and excluding Indians no(t taxed, three-fifths of all other per- 
sons. The actual enumeration shall be made within three years after the first meeting 



502 CONSTITUTION OF THE UNITED STATES 

of the Congress of the United States, and within every subsequent term of ten years, in 
such manner as they shall by law direct. The number of representatives shall not 
exceed one for every thirty thousand, but each state shidl have at least one representa- 
tive; and until such enumeration shall be made, the state of New Hampshire shall be 
entitled to choose three, Massachusetts eight, Khode Island and Providence Plantations 
one, Connecticut five. New York six. New Jersey four, Pennsylvania eight. Delaware 
cne, Maryland six, Virginia ten, North Carolina five, South Carolina five", and Georgia 
three. 

When vacancies happen in the representation from any state, the executive authority 
thereof shall issue writs of election to fill such vacancies. 

The House of Eepresentatives shall choose their speaker and other ofiicers ; and shall 
liave the sole power of impeachment. 

Section 3. The Senate of the United States shall be composed of two senators from 
each state, chosen by the legislature thereof, for six years ; and each senator shall have 
one vote. 

Immediately after they shall be assembled in consequence of the first election, they 
shall be divided as equally as may be into three classes. The seats of the senators of the 
first class shall be vacated at the expiration of the second year, of the second class at the 
expiration of the fourth year, and of the third class at the exj)iration of the sixth year, so 
that one-third may be chosen every second year; and if vacancies happen by resignation, 
or otherwise, during the recess of the legislature of any state, the executive thereof may 
make temporary appointments until the next meeting of the legislature, which shall then 
fill such^vacaneies. 

No pei-son shall be a senator who shall not have attained to the age of thirty years, and 
been nine years a citizen of the United btates, and who shall not^when elected, be an 
inhabitant of that state for which he shall be chosen. 

The vice-president of the United States shall be president of the Senate, but shall have 
no vote, unless they be equally divided. ' 

The Senate shall choose their other ofiicers, and also a president pro tempore, in the 
absence of the vice-president, or when he shall exercise the oflice of president of the 
United States. 

The Senate shall have the sole power to try all impeachments : when sitting for that 
purpose, they shall be on oath or attiruiation. "When the president of the United States 
is tried, the chief-justice shall preside : and no person shall be convicted without the 
concurrence of two-thirds of the members present. 

Judgment in cases of impeachment shall not extend further than to removal from office, 
and disqualification to hold and enjoy any ottice of honor, trust or profit under the United 
States: but the party convicted shall nevertheless be liable and subject to indictment, 
trial, judgment, and puni.shment, according to law. 

Section 4. The times, places, and manner of holding elections for senators and repre- 
sentatives, shall be prescribed in each state by the lesrislature thereof; but the Congress 
may at any time, by law, make or alter such regulations, except as to the places of choos- 
ing senators. 

The Congress shall assemble at least once in every year, and such meeting shall be on 
the first Monday in December, unless they shall, by law, appoint a difterent day. 

Section 5. Each house shall be the judge of the elections, returns, and qualifications of 
its own members, and a majority of each shall constitute a quorum to do business ; but a 
smaller number may adjourn from day to day, and may be author zed to compel the 
attendance of absent members, in such manner, and under such penalties as each house 
may provide. 

Each house may determine the rules of its proceedings, punish its members for disor- 
derly behavior, and, with the concurrence of two-thirds, exjiel a member. 

Each house shall keep a journal of its proceedinss, and from time to time publish the 
same, excepting such parts as may in their judgment require secrecy, and the yeas and 
nays of the members of either house on any question shall, at the desire of one-filth of 
those present, be entered on the journal. 

Neither house, during the session of Congress, shall without the consent of the other, 
adjourn for more than three days, nor to any other place than that in which the two 
houses shall be sitting. 

Section 6. The senators and representatives shall receive a compensation for their ser- 
vices, to be ascertained by law, and paid out of the treasury of the United States. They 
shall in all cases, except treason, felony, and breach of the peace, be privileged fnmi arrest 
during their attendance at the session of their respective houses, and in going to and 
returning from the same; and for any speech or debate in either house, they shall not be 
questioned in any other place. 

No senator or representative shall, during the time for which he was elected, be 
appointed to any civil oflice under the authority of the United States, which shall have 
bee" .icated, or the emoluments whereof shall have been increased duiing such time; 
and no person holding any office under the United States, shall be a member of either 
house during his continuance in office. 

Section 7. All bills for j-aising revenue shall originate in the House of Representatives, 
but the Senate may propose or concur with amendments as on other bills. 



CONSTITUTION OF THE UNITED STATES. 503 

Every bill which shall have passed the House of Eeprcsentatives and the Senate, shall, 
i:)efore it become a law, be presented to the president of the United States; if he approve 
he sliall sign it, but if not he shall return it, with his objections, to that house in which it 
shall have originated, who shall enter the objections at large on their journal, and proceed 
to reconsider it. If after such reconsideration, two- thirds of that house shall agree to pass 
the bill, it shall be sent, together with the objections, to the other house, by which it shall 
likewise be reconsidered, and if approved by two-thirds of that house, it shall become a 
law. But in all such cases the votes of both houses shall be determined by yeas and nays, 
and the names of the persons voting for and against the bill shall be entered on the jour- 
nal of each house respectively. If any bill shall not be returned by the president within 
ten days (Sunday excepted) after it shall have been presented to him, the same shall be a 
law, in like manner as if he had signed it, unless the Congress by their adjournment pro- 
vent its return, in which case it shall not be a law. 

Every order, resolution, or vote to which the concurrence of the Senate and House of 
Representatives may be necessary (except on a question of adjournment) shall be pi-e- 
sented to the president of the United States; and before the same shall take elfect, shall 
be approved by him, or, being disapproved by him, shall be repassed by two-thirds of the 
Senate and House of Representatives, according to the rules and limitations prescribed in 
the case of a bill. 

Section 8. The Congress shall have power to lay and collect taxes, duties, imposts, and 
excises, to pay the debts and provide fur the common defence and general welfare of the 
U nited States ; but all duties, imposts, and excises shall be uniform throughout the United 
States ; 

To borrow money on the credit of the United States; 

To regulate commerce with foreign nations, and among the several states, and with the 
Indian tribes; 

To establish a uniform rule of naturalization, and uniform laws on the subject of bank- 
ruptcies throughout the United States; 

To coin money, regulate the value thereof, and of foreign coin, and fix the standard of 
weights and measures; 

To pro\ ide for the punishment of counterfeiting the securities and current coin of the 
United States ; 

To establish post-oflices and post-roads ; 

To promote the progress of .'cience and useful arts, by securing for limited times, to 
authors and inventors the exclusive right to their respective wa-itings and discoveries; 

To constitute tribunals interior to the supreme court; 

To define and pun sh piracies and felonies committed on the high seas, and offences 
against the laws of nations ; 

To declare war, grant letters of marque and reprisal, and make rules concerning cap- 
tures on land and water ; 

To raise and support armies, but no appropriation of money to that use shall bo for a 
longer term than two years ; 

To provide and maintain a nav}'; 

To make rules for the government and regulation of the land and naval forces ; 

To provide for calling forth the militia to execute the laws of the Union, suppress insur- 
rections, and repel invasions; 

To provide for organizing, arming, and disciplining, the militia, and for governing such 
part of them as may be employed in the service of the United States, reserving to the 
states respectively, the appointment of the officers, and the authority of training the 
militia according to the discipline prescribed by Congress. 

To exercise exclusive legislation in all cases whatsoever, over such district (not exceed- 
ing ten miles square) as may, by cession of particular states, and the acceptance of Con- 
gress, become the seat of the g<5vernment of the United States, and to exercise like 
authority over all places purchased by the consent of the legislature of the state in which 
the same shall be, lor the erection of forts, magazines, arsenals, dockyards, and other 
needful buildings; — and 

To make all laws which shall be necessary and proper for carrying into execution the 
foregoing powers, and all other powers vested by this constitution in the government of 
the United States, or in any department or oflicer thereof 

Section 9. The migration or importation of such persons as any of the states now exist- 
ing shall think proper to adm.t, shall not be prohibited by the Congress prior to the 
year one thousand eight hundred and eight, but a tax or duty may be imposed on such 
importation, not exceeding ten dollars for each person. 

The privilege of the writ of habeas corpus shall not be suspended, unless when in cases 
of rebellion or invasion the public safety may require it. 

No bill of attainder or ex post facto law shall be passed. 

No capitation, or other drect tax shall be laid, unless in proportion to the census or 
enumeration hereinbefore directed to be taken. 

No tax or duty shall be laid on articles exported fx'om any state. 

No preference shall be given by any regulation of commerce or revenue to the ports of 
one state over those of another : nor shall vessels bound to, or from, one state, be obliged 
to enter, clear, or pay duties in another. 



504 CONSTITUTION OF THE UNITED STATES. 

No money shall be drawufrom the treasury, but in consequence of appropriations made 
by law; and a regular statement and account of the receipts and expenditures of all pub- 
lic money shall be published from time to time. 

No title of nobility shall be <rr:inted by the United States: and no person holding any 
office of profit or trust under them, shall, without the consent of the Congress, accept of 
any present, emolument, office, or title, of any kind whatever, from any king, prince, or 
foreign state. 

Section 10. No state shall enter into any treaty, alliance, or confederation; grant letters 
of marque and repr.sal; coin money ; emit bills of credit; make any thing but gold and 
silver coin a tender in payment of debts; pass any bill of attainder, ex post facto law, or 
law impairing the obligation of contracts, or grant any title of nobility. 

No state shall, without the consent of the Congress, lay any impost or duties on im- 
p )rts or exports, except what may be absolutely necessary for executing its inspection 
laws ; and the net produce of all duties and imposts, laid by any state on imports or ex- 
j).)rts, shall be for the use of the treasury of the United States; and all such laws shall be 
bub.ject to the revisi<m and control of the Congress. 

No state shall, without the consent of Congress, lay any duty of tonnage, keep troops, 
or ships-of-war in time of peace, enter into any agreement or compact Avith another state, 
or with a foreign power, or engage in war, unless actually invaded, or in such imminent 
danger as will not admit of delay. 

ARTICLE II. 

Section 1. The executive power shall be vested in a president of the United States of 
America. He shall hold his office during the term of four years, and, together with the 
vice-president, chosen for the same terin,"be elected, as follows: 

Each state shall appoint, in such manner as the legislature thereof may direct, a number 
of electors, equal to the whole number of senators and representatives to which the state 
may be ent.tled in the Congress: but no senator or representative, or person holding an 
office of trust or profit under the United States, shall be appointed an elector. 

[The electors shall meet in their respective states, and vote by ballot for two persons, 
of whom one at least shall not be an inhabitant of the same state with themselves. And 
they shall make a list of all the persons voted for, and of the number of votes for each; 
which list they shall sign and certify, and transmit sealed to the seat of the government 
of the United States, directed to the president of the Senate. The president of the Senate 
shall, in the presence of the Senate and House of Representatives, open all the certificates, 
and the votes shall then be counted. The person having the greatest number of votes 
shall be the president, if such number be a majority of the whole number of electors 
appointed ; and if there be more than one who have such majority and have an equal 
number of votes, then the House of Representatives shall immediately choose by ballot 
one of them for president; and if no person have a majority, then from the five hi. best 
on the list the said house shall in like manner choose the president. But in choosing the 
president, the votes shall be taken by states, the representation from each state having 
one vote; a quorum for this purpose shall consist of a member or members from two- 
thirds of the states, and a majority of all the states shall be necessary to a choice. In 
every case, after the choice of the president, the person having the greatest number 
of votes of the electors shall be the vice-president. But if there should remain two 
or more who have equal votes, the Senate shall choose fi-om theua by ballot the vice- 
president.] 

The Congress may determine the time of choosing the electors, and the day on which 
they shall give their votes ; which day shall be the same throughout the United States. 

No person except a natural born citizen, or a citizen. of the United States, at the time 
of the adoption of this Constitution, shall be eligible to the office of president ; neither 
shall any person be eligible to that office who shall not have attained to the age of thirty- 
five years, and been fourteen y<?ars resident within the United States. 

In case of the removal of the president from office, or of his death, resignation, or in- 
ability to discharge the powers and duties of the said office, the same shall devolve on 
the vice-president, and the Congress may by law provide I'or the case of removal, death, 
resignation, or inability, both of the president and vice-president, declaring what officer 
ehali then act as president, and such officer shall act accordingly, until the disability b» 
removed, or a president shall be elected. 

The president shall, at stated times, receive for his services, a compensation, which 
shall neither be increased nor diminished during the period for which he shall have been 
elected, and he shall not receive within that period any other emolument from the United 
States, or any of them. 

Before he enter on the execution of his office, he shall take the following oath or 
affirmation: — "I do solemnly swear (or aflirm) that I will faithfully execute the office of 
president of the United States, and will to the best of my ability, preserve, protect, and 
defeiiil the constitution of the United States." 

Section 2. The president shall be commander-in-chief of the army and navy of the 
United States, and of the militia of the several states, when called into the actual service 
of the United States ; he may require the opinion, in writing, of the principal officer in 



CONSTITUTION OF THE UNITED STATES. 505 

each of the eEecutivc departments, upon any subject relating to the duties of their re. 
epective offices, and he shall have power to grant reprieves and pardons for otfences against 
the United States, except in cases of impeachment. 

He shall have power, by and with the advice and consent of the Senate, to make treaties, 
provided two-thirds of the senators present concur; and he shall nominate, and by and 
with the advice and consent of the Senate, shall appoint ambassadors, other public minis- 
ters and consuls, judges of the supreme court, and all other officers of the United States, 
whose appointments are not herein otherwise provided for, and which shall be established 
by law: but the Congress may by law vest the appointment of such inferior officers, as 
they think proper, in the president alone, in the courts of law, or in the heads of depart- 
ments. 

The president shall have power to fill up all vacancies that may happen during the 
recess of the Senate, by granting commissions which shall expire at the end of theirnext 
session. 

Section 8. He shall from, time to time give to the Congress information of the state of 
the Union, and recommend to their consideration such measures as he shall judge neces- 
sary and expedient; he may on extraordinary occasions, convene both houses, or either 
of them, and in case of disagreement between them, with respect to the time of adjourn- 
ment, he may adjourn them to such time as he shall think proper ; he shall receive am- 
bassadors and other public ministers; he shall take care that the laws be faithfully exe- 
cuted, and shall commission all the officers of the United States. 

Section 4. The president, vice-president, and all civil officers of the United States, shall 
be removed from office on impeachment for, and conviction of, treason, bribery, or other 
high crimes and misdemeanors. 

AETICLE III. 

Section 1. The judicial power of the United States, shall be vested in one supreme 
court, and in such inferior courts as the Congress may from time to time ordain and 
establish. The judges, both of the supreme and inferior courts, shall hold their offices 
during good behavior, and shall, at stated times, receive for their services, a compensation, 
which shall not be diminished during their continuance in office. 

Section 2. The judicial power shall extend to all cases, in law and equity, arising under 
this Constitution, the laws of the United States, and treaties made, or which shall be 
made, under their authority; to all cases affecting ambassadors, other public ministers, 
and consuis; to all cases of admiralty and maritime jurisdiction; to controversies to 
which the United States shall be a party ; to controversies between two or more states; 
between a state and citizens of another state ; between citizens of different states; be- 
tween citizens of the same state claiming lands under grants of different states, and 
between a state, or the citizens thereof, and foreign states, citizens, or subjects. 

In all cases affecting ambassadors, other public ministers and consuls, and those in 
which a state shall be party, the supreme court shall have original jurisdiction. In all 
the other cases before mentioned, the supreme court shall have appellate jurisdiction, 
both as to law and fact, with such exceptions, and under such regulations as the Congress 
shall make. 

The trial of all crimes, except in cases of impeachment, shall be by jury; and such trial 
shall be held in the state where the said crimes shall have been committed ; but when 
not committed within any state, the trial shall be at such place or places as the Congress 
may by law have directed. 

Section 8. Treason against the United States, shall consist only in levying war against 
them, or in adhering to their enemies, giving them aid and comfort. 

No person shall be convicted of treason unless on the testimony of two witnesses to the 
same overt act, or on confession in open court. 

The Congress shall have power to declare the punishment of treason, but no attainder 
of treason shall work corruption of blood, or forfeiture except during the life of the per- 
son attainted. 

ARTICLE IV. 

Section 1. Full faith and credit shall be given in each state to the public acts, records, 
and judicial proceedings of every other state. And the Congress may by general laws 
prescribe the manner in which such acts, records, and proceedings shall be proved, and 
the effect thereof. 

Section 2. The citizens of each state shall be entitled to all privileges and immunities 
of citizens in the several states. 

A person charged in any state with treason, felony, or other crime, who shall flee from 
justice, and be foimd in another state, shall, on demand of the executive authority of the 
state from which he fled, be delivered up, to be removed to the state having jurisdiction 
of the crime. 

No person held to service or labor in one state, under the laws thereof, escaping into 
another, shall, in consequence of any law or regulation therein, be discharged from such 
service or labor, but shall be delivered up on claim of the party to whom such service or 
labor may be due. 

43 



506 CONSTITUTION OF THE UNITED STATES. 

Section 3. New states may be a(4mitted by the Congress into this Union ; but no ne-vt 
state shall be formed or erected within the jurisdiction of any other state ; nor any state 
be formed by the junction of two or more states, without the consent of the legislaturea 
of the states concerned as well as of the Congress. 

The Congress shall have power to dispose of and make all needful rnles and regulations 
respecting the territory or other property belonging to the United States; and nothing 
in this Constitution shall be so construed as to prejudice any claims of the United States, 
or of any particular state. 

Section 4. The United States shall guarantee to every state in this Union, a republican 
form of government, and shall protect each of them against invasion, and on application 
of the legislature, or of the executive (when the legislature cannot be convened) against 
domestic violence. 

AETICLE Y. 

The Congi-ess, whenever two-thirds of both houses shall deem it necessary, shall pro- 
pose amendments to this Constitution, or, on the application of the legislatures of two- 
thirds of the several states, shall call a convention for proposing amendments, which, in 
either case, shall be valid to all intents and purposes, as part of this Constitution, when 
ratified by the legislatures of three-fourths of the several states, or by conventions in 
three-fourths thereof, as the one or the other mode of ratification may be proposed by the 
Congress ; provided that no amendment which may be made prior to the year one thou- 
sand eight hundred and eight> shall in any manner afi'ect the first and fourth clauses in 
the ninth section of the first article ; and that no state, without its consent, shall ba 
deprived of its equal sutt'rage in the Senate. 

AETICLE VI. 

All debts contracted and engagements entered into, before the adoption of this Consti- 
tution, shall be as valid against the United States under this Constitution, as under the 
confederation. 

This Constitution, and the laws of the United States which shall be made in pursuance 
thereof; and all treaties made, or which shall be made, under the authority of the United 
States, shall be the supreme law of the land ; and the judges in every state shall be bound 
thereby, any thing in the constitution or laws of any state to the contrary notwithstanding. 

The senators and representatives before mentioned, and the members of the several 
state legislatures, and all executive and judicial oflScers, both of the United States and of 
the several states, shall be bound by oath or affirmation, to support this Constitution ; 
but no religious test shall ever be required as a qualification to any oflice or public trust 
under the United States. 

ARTICLE YIL 

The ratification of the conventions of nine states, shall be sufiicient for the establish- 
ment of this Constitution between the states so ratifying the same. 

Done in convention by the unanimous consent of the states present the seventeenth day 
of September in the year of our Lord one thousand seven hundred and eighty-seven, 
and of the independence of the United States of America the twelfth. In witness 
whereof we have hereunto subscribed our names. 

GEOEGE WASHINGTON, 
President, and Deputy from Virginitu 



NEW HAMPSHIRE. 

John Langdon, 
Nicholas Gilman. 

MASSACHUSETTS. 

Nathaniel Gorham, 
Eufus King. 

CONNECTICUT. 

William Samuel Johnson, 
Eoger Sherman. 

NEW YORK. 

Alexander Hamilton. 

NEW JERSEY. 

William Livingston, 
David Brearley, 
William Paterson, 
Jonathan Dayton. 

Attest : 



PENNSYLVANIA. 

Benjamin Franklin, 
Thomas Mifliin, 
Eobert Morris, 
George Clymer, 
Thomas Fitzsimons, 
Jared Ingersoll, 
James Wilson, 
Gouverneur Morris. 

DELAWARE. 

George Reed, 
Gunning Bedford, Jr., 
John Dickinson, 
Richard Bassett, 
Jacob Broom. 

GBORGIA- 
MARYLAND. 

James M'Henry, 

Danie of St. Thos. Jenifer, 

Daniel Carroll. 

WILLIAM JACKSON, Secretari^. 



VIRGINIA. 

John Blair, 
James Madison, Jr. 

NORTH CAROLINA. 

William Blount, 
Eichard Dobbs Spaigfet, 
Hugh Williamson. 

SOUTH CAROLINA. 

John Eutledge, 
Charles C. Pinckney, 
Charies Pinckney, 
Pierce Butler. 



William Few, 
Abraham Baldwin. 



AMENDMENTS TO THE CONSTITUTION. 507 



AMENDMENTS 

•I'D THE CONSTITUTION OP THE UNITED STATES, RATIFIED ACCORDING TO THE 
PROVISIONS OF THE FIFTH ARTICLE OF THE FOREGOING CONSTITUTION. 

Article the first. Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, 
or prohibiting the free exercise thereof: or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the 
press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the government 
for redress of grievances. 

Article the second. A well-regulated militia, being necessary to the security of a free 
state, the right of the people to keep and bear arms, shall not be infringed. 

Article the third. No soldier shall, in time of peace, be quartered in any house, 
without the consent of the owner, nor in time of war, but in a manner to be prescribed 
by law. 

Article the fourth. The right of the people to be secure in their persons, houses, 
papers, and effects, against unreasonable searches and seizures, shall not be violated, and 
no warrants shall issue, but upon probable cause, supported by oath or affirmation, and 
particularly describing the place to be searched, and the persons or things to be seized. 

Article the fifth. No person shall be held to answer for a capital, or otherwise in- 
famous crime, unless on a presentment or indictment of a grand jury, except in cases 
arising In the land or naval forces, or in the militia, when in actual service in time of war 
and public danger; nor shall any person be subject for the same offence to be twice put 
in jeopardy of life or limb; nor shall be compelled in any criminal case to be a witness 
against himself, nor to be deprived of life, liberty, or property, without due process of 
law ; nor shall private property be taken for public use, without just compensation. 

Article the sixth. In all criminal prosecutions, the accused shall enjoy th© right to 
a speedy and public trial, by an impartial jury of the state and district wherein the crime 
shall have been committed, which district shall have been previously ascertained bylaw, 
and to be informed of the nature and cause of the accusation; to be confronted with the 
witnesses against him; to have compulsory process for obtaining witnesses in his favor, 
and to have the assistance of counsel for his defence. 

Article the seventil In suits at common law, where the value in controvei'sy shall 
exceed twenty dollars, the right of trial by jury shall be preserved, and no fact tried by a 
jury shall be otherwise re-examined in any court of the United States, than according to 
the rules of common law. 

Article the eighth. Excessive bail shall not be required, nor excessive fines imposed, 
nor cruel and unusual punishments inflicted. 

Article the ninth. The enumeration in the Constitution, of certain rights, shall not 
be construed to deny or disparage others retained by the people. 

Article the tenth. The powers not delegated to the United States by the Consti- 
tution, nor prohibited by it to the states, are reserved to the states respectively, or to the 
people. 

Article the eleventh. The judicial power of the United States shall not be con' 
strued to extend to any suit in law or equity, commenced or prosecuted against one of 
the United States by citizens of another state, or by citizens or subjects of any foreign 
state. 

Article the twelfth. The electors shall meet in their respective states, and vote by 
ballot for president and vice-president, one of whom, at least, shall not be an inhabitant 
of the same state with themselves; they shall name in their ballots the person voted for 
as president, and in distinct ballots the person voted for as vice-president, and they shall 
make distinct lists of all persons voted for as president, and of all persons voted for as 
vice-president, and of the number of votes for each, which lists they shall sign and cer- 
tify, and transmit sealed to the seat of the government of the United States, directed to 
the president of the Senate ; the president of the Senate shall, in the presence of the 
Senate and House of Kepresentatives, open all the certificates, and the votes shall then 
be counted; the person having the greatest number of votes for president, shall be the 

f)resident, if such number be a majority of the whole number of electors appointed ; and 
f no person have such majority, then from the persons having the highest numbers not 
exceeding three on the list of those voted for as president, the House of Representatives 
shall choose immediately, by ballot, the president. But in choosing the president, the 
votes shall be taken by states, the representation from each state having ouo vote ; a 



508 AMENDMENTS TO THE CONSTITUTION. 

quorum for this purpose shall consist of a member or members from two-thirds of the 
states, and a majority of all the states shall be necessary to a choice. And if the House 
of Representatives shall not choose a president whenever the right of choice shall devolve 
upon them, before the fourth day of March next following, then the vice-president shall 
act as president, as in the case of the death or other constitutional disability of the presi- 
dent. The person having the greatest number of votes as vice-president, shall be the 
vice-president, if such number be a majority of the whole number of electors appointed, 
and if no person have a majority, then from the two highest numbers on the list, the 
Senate shall choose the vice-president; a quorum for the" purpose shall consist of two- 
thirds of the whole number of senators, and a majority of the whole number shall be 
necessarj^ to a choice. But no person constitutionally ineligible to the office of presideuJi; 
shall be eligible to that of vice-president of the United States. 



INDEX 



AND PRONOUNCING DICTIONARY OF PROPER NAMES OCCURRING IN THIS WORK. 



It is recommended that the teacher exercise the pupils in this index as a 
spelling lesson. 



A. PAGE 

Ab'-er-crom-bie 156 

Ab-o-rig'-i-nes, of America 494 

A-ca'-dia 54 

Ad'-ams, John 177,287, 296, 304, 375 

Ad'-ams, John Quin'-cy 333,374, 414 

Ad'-ams, Sam'u-el 191 

A-dol'-phus, Gus-ta'-vus 106 

Af-ri-ca 12 

Aixla-Cha-pell6 [x-la-sha-peU/^ 139 

A-la-ba'-ma 367 

Al-be-marle' 453 

A-lert', capture of 328 

Al-ex-an'-dri-a 353 

Al-giers', war with 362 

Al-gon'-quins 94 

Al-la-too'-na Pass 466 

Al'-len, Ethan 188 

A-rae'-li-a Isl'and 365 

A-mer'-i-can party 436 

Am'-herst, General 160 

Am pu'-di-a, General 407 

An-a-huac' \an-a-wack''\ 484 

An'-der-sou, Major 450 

An'-dre \an'-dray\ Major 267 

An'-dros, Sir Ed'-mond 104, 121 

An-uap'-o-lis 129 

Ant-arc'tic Continent 393 

An-tie'-tam 459 

A-pa -ches 473 

Ap-a-lach'-i-an In'-di-ans 131 

A-rau-ca'-ni-ans 491 

Ar'-gale, Captain 52 

Ar-gen-tine' Re-pub'-lic 492 

Ar'-gus, capture of 339 

Ar-kan'-sas 381 

Arm'-strong, General 343 

Ar'-nold Ben'-e-dict 200, 202, 219, 266, 271 

Ash'-bur-ton, Lord 399 

A'-si-a 12 

As-sin'-i-bo-ins 473 

As'-tor, John Ja'-cob 445 

As-to'-ri-a 445 

Atlan'-tic O'-cean 13 

At'-tucks 176 

Av'-on, capture of. 348 

B. 

Ba'-con, Na-than'-iel 114 

Ba-ha'-mas 24, 482 

43* 



PAGE 

Bain'-bridge, Captain 313 

Bal-bo'-a 488 

Bal'-ti-more, Lord 76 

Bal'-ti-more ri'-ot 325 

Bar'-ca 314 

Bar'-ney, Commodore 352 

Bar'-re, Colonel , 167 

Bar'-ron, Commodore 317 

Bar'-ry, Captain 275 

Bar'-ton, Colonel 223 

Baum, Colonel 226 

Bay'-ard, J. A 333 

Behr'-ing, Vi'-tus 481 

Beau'-fort 453 

Beau-re-gard', General 450 

Bell, John 448 

Bel'-la-my, Sam'-u-el 134 

Bel'-moiit, Au'-gust 423 

Ben'-ning-ton, battle of. 226 

Ben'-ton, Thom'-as H 440 

Berk'-ley, Lord 105, 114 

Ber'-lin de-cree' 317 

Bid'-dle, Captain 360 

Big Beth'-el 452 

Big Shanty 466 

Bi-lox'-i 147 

Bing'-ham, Captain 321 

Black'-feet .*. 473 

Black Hawk 385 

Black War'-ri-or 429 

Blen-ner-has'-set's Isl'-and 315 

Blood'-y Brook Ill 

Blythe, Captain 340 

Bol'i-var, Si'-mon 465, 491 

Bond, General 337 

Boone, Colonel Dan'-iel 293 

Boone'-ville 452 

Bos'-ton Port Bill 180 

Box'-er, capture of. 340 

Boyd, General 344 

Brad'-dock, Genei'al 154 

Brad'ford, Governor 66 

Brandt 245 

Bran'-dy wine, battle of 221 

Bra-zil' 493 

Breck'-en-ridge, John C 435, 448 

Bre'ton, Cape v 28 

Bridge'-wa-ter, battle of. y 350 

Biit'-ish A-mer'-ica 478 

(509) 



510 



IND EX. 



PAGE 

Brock 326 

Brock, General 330 

Brown, Colonel 190 

Brown, General 349 

Buc-ca-neers' 484 

Bn-chan'-an, James 429, 435, 44f>, 448 

Biid'-ding-ton, Captain 433 

Bu'-ell, General 456 

Bu-e'-nos Ay'-ves [bwe'-nos-ar'-iz] 492 

Bun'-ker Hill, battle of. 191 

Bun'ker-Ilill Mon'-ument 402 

Bur-goyne', General 220, 224 

Bur-goyne', capture of 229 

Burke, Edmund 171 

Burn'side, General 454 

Burr, Aa'-ron ...; 309, 312 

Burr's Con-spir'-a-cy 315 

Bur'-rows, Lieutenant 340 

But'-ler, John 245 

C. 

CaV-ot, John 27 

Cab'-ot, Se-bas'-ti an 27 

Cai'-ro 451 

Cal'-houn, John C 374, 420 

Cal-ifor'-ni-a 416 

Cal'-vert, George 76 

Cal'-vert, Leon'-ard 76 

Cam'-bridge Plat'-form 127 

Cam'-den,"battle of. 264 

Can'-a-da 479 

Ca-na'-ry Isles 13, 21 

Ca-non'-chet 112 

Ca-non'-i-cus , 66 

Car'-den, Captain 331 

Car'-i-bees 485 

Car-o-li'-na 107 

Car-o-li'-na, South 108 

Car'-roll, Charles 385 

Car'-te-ret,.Sir George 105 

Car'-thage 452 

Car'-tier 29 

Car'-ver, Governor 57, 66 

Cass, General 343, 415 

Ca-taw'-ba.s 96 

Cat Island 482 

Cau-pol'-i-can 481 

Cen'-tial Amer'-i-ca 484 

Cer'-ro Gor'-do 410 

Cha-long', Captain 53 

Chanipe, Sergeant 269 

Chan'-cel-lors-ville 460 

Chapul'-te-pec 411 

Charles 1 89 

Charles IX 107 

Charles'-ton 108 

Charles' ton, surrendcx" of. 262 

Char' ter Oak 122 

Chat' ham. Lord 157 

Chat-ta-hoo'-chie 466 

Chat-ta-noo-'ga 461 

Chaun'-cev, Commodore..... 335, 343, 348 

Che-raw', battle of. 273 

Cher-o-kee', In'-di-ans 96, 162 

Ches'-a-peake, attack on 317 

Ches'-a-peake, capture of. 338 

Chick-a-hom'-i-ny 39, 458 

Chick-a-mau'-ga 461 

Chil'-i 491 

Chip'-pe-wa, battle of. 349 



Choc'-taws.. 

Clai'-borne, Governor. 



Clav'-borne 77 

Clay, Hen'-ry 379, 388, 404, 419, 423 

Clinch, General 383 

Clin' ton, De \V itt 333 

Clin'-ton, General 206, 210 

Clin'-ton, George 312, 320 

Co-ahui'-la [co-a-wee'-la] 408 

Co-che'-co , 72 

Cod, Cape 56 

Cod'-ding-ton, Will'-iam 81 

Coffee, General 344 

Co-lom'-bi-a 493 

Co-lum'-bus, Chris'-topher 18, 26 

Co-man'-ches 473 

Com'-pro-mise of 1850 419 

Con'-cord, battle of. 1S6 

Con-fed'er-a-tion, Ar'-ti-cles of. 279 

Con'-gress, first general 181 

Con-nec'-ti-cut 78 

Con-sti-tu'-tion of the United States 285 

Con-ti-nen'-tal Con'-gress 207 

Con-ti-nen'-tal Mon'-ey 255 

Con-tre'-ras 411 

Coop'-er, Rev. Mr 295 

Copy's Hill 193 

Corn-wal'-lis, Lord 218, 276 

Cor'-pus Chris'-ti 406 

Cor-te-re'-al, Gas'-par 28 

Cor'-tez, Fer-nan'-do 32, 484 

Cos'-ta Ri'-ca [kos'-ta-j-ee'-ka] 461, 487 

Cote, Colonel 391 

Cot'-ton, history of. 141 

Cow'-pens, battle of. 272 

Crad'-ock, Governor 71 

Cra'-ven, Governor 132 

Craw'-ford, Minister .... 339 

Creek In'-di-ans 96, 383 

Creek In'-di-ans, war with 345 

Cro'-ghan, Major 337 

Crom'-well 89 

Crown Point 153 

Crys'-tal Pal'-ace 430 

Cu'-ba 25,482 

Cul'-pep-per, Lord ... 115 

Cum'-ming, Governor 440 

Cush'-ing, Ca'-leb 403 

Cus'-ter, General 462 

Cy-ane', capture of. 360 



Da'-cres, Captain 




329 






383 


Dah-ivo'-tahs . 




96 


Dahl'-gren, General 




462 






49 


Dal'-las, George M 




404 


Dan'-bury, burning of 




219 






100 






361 


Dart'-mouth Col'-lege 




128 


Dav'-en-port, Rev Mr 




86 


Da'-vies, W. R 




305 


Da'-vis, Jefferson 




449 


Deane, Si'-las 




236 


Dear'-born, General Hen'-ry 


329 


343 


De-ca'-tur, Commodore 


313 


362 


De Grasse, Count 




277 


De Ha'-ven 




480 



IND EX. 



511 



PAGE 

De Kalb, Baron 26o 

Del'-a-vvare 106 

Del'-a-ware, Lord 48 

Del'-a-wares 96 

Delft'-ha-ven • 56 

Dem-o-crat'-ic party 395 

Den'-mark 14 

Den'-ys of Hon'-fleur 28 

De-pos'-its, removal of. 380 

Derne 314 

D'Es-taing', Couot 241, 275 

De-troit' 147 

D'I'-ber-ville 147 

E)i-es'-kau 154 

I)in-vvid'-clie, Governor 148 

Diri'-trictof Co-lum'-bia 308 

Dor'-ches-ter 79 

Dor'-ches-ter Heights 204 

Dorr, Thom'-as W 400 

Doug'-Ias, Stephen A 448 

Do'-ver 72 

Drake, Sir Fran'-cis 108 

Drum'-mond, General 349 

Dud'-ley, Thom'-as 74 

Dun'-more, Lord 201 

Du-pont', Commodore 453 

Dutch 51 

E. 

Ear'-ly, General 464 

East'-ern War 431 

Eas'-ton 158 

Ea'-ton, General 314 

Ea'-ton, Mr 86 

Ed'-ward, Fort 225 

El'-i-ot, John 99 

E-liz'-a-beth, queen of England 30 

E-liz'-a-beth-town 105 

Mls'-worth, Hen'-ry L 393 

Ells'-worth, Ol'-i-ver 305 

Em-bar'-go 346 

En'-di-eott, Governor 71 

Eng'-lish Bill 437 

Eng'-lish, Mr 437 

E-per'-vier, capture of. 347 

E-qua-dor' 493 

E'-rie , 17 

Es'-qui-maux [es'-ki-mo] 91, 480 

Es'-sex, capture of 347 

Eti'-rope 12 

Eu'-taw Spi-ings, battle of. 274 

Ev'-er-ett, Ed'-ward 425 

Ev'-er-glades 384 

Ex-plor'-ing Expe-di'-tion 393 

F. 

Fan'-euil Hall 175 

Far'-ra-gut, Admiral 457 

Fau'-chet, French minister 297 

Fay-ette', General 221 

Fed'-er-al party 298, 396 

Fcr'-di-nand 20 

Fi'-gi [fm'-ffee] Isl'-ands 393 

Fil-li-bus'-ters 422 

Fill'-raore, Mil'-lard...' ...'.....'.'....Alb, 421 

Fish'-er, Fort 4R8 

Flag of the United States 231 

Fletch'-er, Governor 124 

Flor'-i-da 29, 370 403 

Flor'-i-da War 382 



Fort du Quesne [Jcane] 148 

Fort McIIen'-ry 353 

Fort Meigs, siege of 337 

Fort Minims 344 

Fort Wash'-ing-ton .... 213 

For- Wil'-liam Hen'-ry 157 

Fos'-ter, Mr 321 

Fox, George 116 

Fran'-ci-a, Dr 492 

Fran'-cis 1 28 

Frank'-lin, Dr 129, 154, 168, 170, 185, 286 

Frank'-lin, Sir John 433, 481 

Fred'-er-icks-burg 457 

Free-Soil'-ers 416 

Fre-mont', John C 409, 435 

French and In'-di-an War 156 

French Creek 150 

French Mills 344 

French l!ev-o-lu'-tion 297 

French'-town, mas'-sa-cre at 3.34 

Frol'-ic, capture of. 331 

Ful'-ton, llob'-ert 321 

G. 

Gage, General 181, 182, 

Gaines, General 351, 

Gal'-la-tin, Al'-bert 

Gas-pee' 

Gates, General 227, 230, 263, 

Gates, Sir Thom'-as 

Ge-net', Fi'ench minister 

Gen'-o a 



Geor'-gi-a 247, 368, 

Geor'-gi-a, settlement of. 

Ger'-man-town, battle of. 

Ger'-ry, El'-bridge .305, 

Get'-tys-burg 

Ghent, treaty of 

Gibbs, General « 

Gil'-mer, Mr 

God'-win, Will'-iam 

Goffe 

Gor'-ges, Fer-di-nan'-do 

Gos'-nold, Bar-thol'-o-mew 

Gos'-nold, Captain 

Graf'-fen-ried, Baron 

Gray, Captain 

Great Mead'-ows 

Green, Bar-thol'-o-mev^^....'. 

Greene, General 214, 235, 

Green'-land 16, 

Green Moun'-tain Boys 

Gren'-ville, Charles 

Grin-nell', Ileu'-ry 

Gua-da-loupe'-Hi-dal'-go 

Gu-a-na-ha'ni ^.• 

Gna-te ma'-la 484, 

Gner-ri-ere', capture of 

Gui-a'-na 

Guil'-ford Court-House, battle of 

Gus-ta'-vus Adol'-phus 



184 

383 
333 
178 
272 
48 
297 
19 
375 
136 
234 
333 
461 
360 
359 
401 
302 
111 
72 
30 
52 
132 
444 
151 
141 
272 
480 
190 
171 
433 
411 
24 
487 
329 
403 
276 
106 



Hale, Captain Na'-than • 269 

Ha'-met 314 

Ham'-il-ton, Al-ex-an'-der...289, 296, 302, 312 

Hamp'-den • ^^ 

Han'-cock, John 207, 191 

Har'-rly, Commodore .• 348 

Har'-lem Heights 213 



512 



INDEX. 



Har'-inar, General 291 

Har'iiey, General 439, 445 

Har'-ri-son, General, 

323, 329, 334, 341, 378, 396 

Hart'-ford • 79 

Hart'-ford Con-ven'-tiou 357 

Hart'-stene, Lieutenant 433 

Har'-vard Col'-lege 128 

Hat'ter-as In'-let 463 

Hay' ti 482 

Heint'-zcl-man, General.- 452 

Hen'-ne-pin 144 

Hen-ri-'co [hen-ree.'-co\ ^ 49 

Hen'-ry, Pat'-rick 168 

Ilen'-ry VII 20 

Iler-re'-ra, General 406 

Hess'-ians 203 

Hib'-bins 100 

Ilis-pa-ni-o'-la 483 

Hon-du'-ras 487 

Hope, Monnt 109 

Howe, General 193, 210 

Hud'-son, Hen'-ry 51 

Hud'-son's Bay 479 

Hud'-son's Bay Company 479 

Hull, General 326 

Hulse'-nian, Chev-a-lier' 423 

Hu'-ron-Ir'-o-quois 94 

Hu'-rons 387 

Hutch'-in-son, Ann 117 

I. 

Il-li-nois' 367 

Im-press'-ment 316 

In'-a-chus 12 

In-de-pend'-ence, Dec-la-ra'-tion of. 208 

In-di-a'-na 363 

In-di-a'-na Ter'-ri-to-ry 308 

In'-di-an race 489 

In'-di-ans 24 

In'-di ans, description of 92 

In'-di-ans of the West 472 

lu'-di-an Ter'-ri-to-ry 382, 472 

In'-gra-ham, Captain 427 

In-ter'-nal im-prove'-nrients 405 

I'-owa 403 

Ir'-o-quois 387 

Is-a-bel'-la.. 20 

Is'-a-bel, Point 407 

I-u'-ka 460 

Iz'-ard, General 351 

J. 

Jack'-son, General 344, 359, 366, 377, 404 

Jack'-son party 395 

Ja-mai'-ca 26 

Jame'-son, Colonel .^ 268 

.Tames'-town 35 

Ja-pan' Ex-pe-di'-tion 428 

Ja'-va, capture of 332 

Jay, John 299, 378 

Jay's treaty 300 

•Jed'-do, Bay of. 428 

Jef'-fer-son,' Thom'as 289, 297, 309, 375 

Jen'rner. Dr 307 

Jes'-sup, General ...!...351, 384 

John'-son, General 153 

John'-son, Governor LSI 

John'-son, Rich'-ard M 3S9 

John'-ston. Colonel 439 



Jo'-li-et 144 

Jones, Captain 331 

Jones, Mar'-garet 100 

Jones, Paul 232 

Jus'-suf 414 

K. 

Kane, Dr 432, 481 

Kane, Mr 439 

Kan'-sas 436 

Kan'-sas-Ne-bras'-ka Bill 429 

Kas-kas'-ki-a 147 

Kean, General 359 

Kear'-sarge ... 465 

Keitt, L. M 433 

Ken'-e-saw , 466 

Ken-tuck'-y 292 

Ke'-o-kuck 385 

Kidd, Will'-iam 135 

Kil-pat'-rick, General 402 

King, Will'-iam K 427 

King Will'-iam's War 122 

Kings'-bridge 213 

King's Moun'-tain, battle of 264 

Klieft, Will'-iam 102 

Knip-hau'-sen, General 265 

Know'-Noth'-ings , 436 

Knox, General 302 

Knox, Hen-ry 289 

Kos-ci-us'-co 221 

Kos'-suth, Lou'-is 423 

Kosz'-ta, Mar'-tin 427 

Ii. 

Lab-ra-dor' 27 

La Fay-ette' 237, 253, 261, 271, 276, 371 

Lake Cham-plain', battle of. 355 

Lake E-rie, battleof. , 340 

La Salle' 144 

Lath'-rop, Captain m 

Law'-rence, Captain 338 

Lear, Consul 314 

Lee, General Charles 239 

Lee, General R. E 459 

Lee, Rich'-ard Hen'-ry 166 

Le'-on, Ponce de 29 

Leop'-ard, frigate 317 

Le-vant', capture of 360 

Lew'-is and Clark 316 

Lex'-ing-ton, battle of 185 

Ley'-den [ii'-den] 55 

Lief. 16 

Lin'-coln, Abraham... 447, 449 

Lin'-coln, General 248, 284 

Lin'-gan. General 325 

Little Belt ; 321 

Locke 108 

Long Isl'-and, battle of. 211 

Lo'-pez 492 

Lo'-pez, General 422 

Lou'-don, Lord 157 

Lon'-is-burg 138. 157 

Lou-is-i-an'-a 147, 311 

Lou'is Phil-lippe' 382 

Lun'-dy's Lane, battle of .- 350 

M. 

McAl'-lis-ter, Fort 467 

Ma-ce-do'-ni-an, capture of. 331 

McClel'-lan, Gvencral 452 



INDEX 



513 



PAGE 

McClure', Captain 433 

McDon'-ough, Commodore 355 

McDou'-gall, General 251 

McDow'-ell, General 452 

McKea', Miss 225 

Madei'-ra [ma-dee'-ra] 174 

Mad'-i-son, James 320,333, 376 

Ma'-doc 15 

Maine 368 

Mal'-vern Hill 458 

Man-as'-sas Junc'-tion 452 

Man-hat'-tan Isl'-and 51 

Man'-i-tou 93 

Ma-ri-et'-ta, Ga 466 

Ma-ri-et'-ta, 310 

Mar-quette' [mar-ket'] 144 

Mar-seilles' [mar-sailz'] 12 

Blar'shall, John 305, 385 

Ma'-ryland 76 

Ma'-son 453 

Ma'-son, Captain 83 

Ma'-son, John 72 

Ma'-son, Minister 4'29 

Mas'-sa-cre, Bos'-ton 176 

Mas'-sa-so-it 65 

Math'-er, Cot'-ton 307 

Mau-mee' Kiv'-er 144 

May'-flow-er 56 

May'-hew, Ex-pe'-rience 99 

Me-Iam'-pns, frigate 317 

Mer-id'-ian 462 

Mer'-ri-mac 455 

Me-sil'-la Val'ley 427 

Meth'-o-dists 127 

Mex'-i-can War 406 

Mex'-i-co 32, 484 

Mi'-a-mies 96 

Mi-an-toa'-o-mah 85 

Mi-can'-o-py 383 

Mich'-i-gan 386 

Mich-il-i-mack'-in-ac [mish-il-e-mak'-in- 

ac\ 162 

Mif-flin, General 281 

Mil'-ler, General 337 

Min-ne-so'-ta 444 

Min'-u-its, Pe'-ter 106 

Mis'-sion-ary Ridge 462 

Mis-sis-sip'-pi 364 

Mis-sis sip'-pi Ter'-ri-to-ry 308 

Mis-sou'-ri 369 

Mis-sou'-ri Com'-pro-mlse..r. 369, 418, 429 

Mo-bi'-li-an In'-di-ans 96 

Mo'-hawks 84 

Mo-he'-gans 85 

Monck'-ton 163 

Monck'-ton, Colonel 238 

Mon-he'-gan Isl'-and 53 

Mou'i-tor 456 

Mon'mouth, battle of - 238 

Monroe', James 305, 318, 364, 376 

Mont-colm', General 157, 161 

Mon-te-rey' 408 

Montgom'-ery 451 

Mont-gom'-er-y, General 199 

Mon-tre-al' 29,162,190 

Moore, Governor 131 

Mo-ra'-vi-an Towns, battle of. 342 

Mor'-gan, General 272, 273 

Mor'-mons 369,438 

Morse, S. V. B 443 

09 -X- 



PAGE, 

Mor'-ton 71 

Moul'-trie, Colonel 207 

Moul'-trie, Fort 450 

Mount Ver'-non La'-dies As-so-ci-a'-tion. 440 

Mud'-dy Brook Ill 

Mur'-frees-bor-o 460 

Mur'-ray, General 161 

Mys'-tic Kiv'-er 83 

N. 

Na-po'-le-on Bo'-na-parte 305 

Nai'-ra-gan'-set In'-di-ans 65, 81 

Nash'-ville 301 

Nas'-sau, Fort 100 

Natch'es In'dians. 146 

Natch'-ez 96,460 

Ne'-gro plot 104 

Nel'-son, Rob'-ert 391 

New Am'-ster-dani 52, 102 

New Arch-an'-gel 481 

New Eng'-land 55 

New-foimd'-land 28 

New Gre-na'-da 493 

New Hamp'-shire 72 

New Ila'-ven 85 

New Jer'-sey 105 

New Le'-on 408 

New Neth'-er-lands 52 

New Or'-leans, battle of. 359 

New'-port, Captain 44, 35 

New Swe'-den 103, 107 

New York 102 

Nicli'-o-las, Colonel 104 

Nich'-ol-son, Commodore 275 

110 

487 

100 

463 

15 

387 

433 

14 

479 

406 

378 



Nip'-mucks. 

Ni-ca-ra'-gua 

No-nan'-tum 

North An'-na 

North'-men.... 

North-West'-ern Ter'-ri-tory. 
North-wes 

Nor'-way 

No'-va Sco'-tia... 

Nu-e'-ces 

Nul-li-fi-ca'-tion. 



o. 

O'-gle-thorpe 136 

O'-IIa'-ra, General 278 

O-hi'-o 310 

Ol'-i-ver 170 

Om'-ni-bus Bill 419 

O-pe-chan'-ca-nough 68 

Or'-ders in Coun'-cil, British 316 

Or'-e-gon ■■ 413, 444 

Os-ce-o'-Ia 383 

Os-tend' Con'-fer ence 429 

O'-tis, James 166 

Ot'-ta-wa 479 

Ot'-ta-was 96 



Pack'-en-ham, Sir E 358 

Pa-du'-cah 451 

Paine, Thom'-as 282, 302 

Pal'-at-in-ates 132 

Palm'-er 270 

Pa'-lo Al'-to 407 

Pa'-los 20 

Pam'-li-co 453 



514 



INDEX. 



PAGE 

Pa-mun'-key 458 

Pau'-icof 1837 389 

Pan'-ic of 1857 440 

Par-a-guay' 492 

Pa-re'-des, President 406 

Par'-ker, Sir Pe'-ter 206 

Par'-ry 481 

Pata-go'-ni-a 491 

Pat'-ter-son, General 452 

Panl'-ding, John 209 

Paul'-us Hook, capture of. 259 

Pel'-i-can, capture of 339 

Penn, Will'-iam 118 

Penn-syl-va'-ni-a 118 

Pen-sa-co'-la 147 

Pe'-quod In'-dians 82 

Per'-ry, Commodore 340 

Pe'-ters-burg 463 

Phil-a-del'-phia 120 

]'hil'-ip, King 109, 113 

Phipps, Sir Will'-iam 123 

Pick'-ens, Fort 450 

Pick'-ei--ing, Tim'-o-thy 302 

Pierce, Frank'-lin 426 

Pike, General 335 

Pinck'-ney, Charles C 305 

Pit-cairn', Major 186 

Pitch'-er, Mol'-ly 239 

Pitt, Lord Chat'-ham 157 

Pitts'-burgh 148 

Pi-zar'-ro 32, 489 

Plym'-outh 59 

Po-ca-hon'-tas 41 

Point Com'-fort 34 

Polk, James K 404 

Pop'-u-lar sov'-er-eign-ty 436 

Por'-to Ri'-co [ree'-co] 483 

Port Roy'-al 108, 129 

Po-to'-mac 451 

Pow-ha-tan' 36 

Pre'-ble, Commodore 313 

Pres'-cott, General 222 

Pres'-i-dent, frigate, captured 360 

Presque [presk~\ Isle 148 

Pre'vost 354 

Pri-deaux', General 159 

Prince'-ton, battle of. 217 

Proc'-tor, General 334, 341 

Prov'-i-dence 81 

Prynne, Captain 53 

Pu-las'-ki, Count 221, 250 

Pu'-ri-tans 55 

Put'-nam, Genel-al 187, 194, 195, 218, 251 

Put'-nam, Ru'-fus 310 

Pyth'-e-as 12 

Q. 

Qua'-ker 116 

Que-bec' 159, 479 

Queen Anne's War 129 

Quin'-cy, Jo-si'-ah 177 

Quin'-ni-pi-ack 85 

Quit'-man 413 

R. 

Ra'-leigh 468 

Ra'-leigh, SirWal'-ter 30 

Ram'-say, Dr 281 

Ran'-dolph, Ed'-mund 297 

Ran'-dolph, John 385 



Ran'-dolph, Lieutenant... 

Ran'-dolph, Pey'-ton 

Rap'-i-dan , 

Rap-pa-han'-nock 

Re-bell'-ion, Ca-na'-di-an. 

Re-bell'-ion, Dorr's 

Re-ci-proc'-i-ty treaty 

Red Bank, battle of. 

Red Stones 

Reg'-u-la-tors 

Rein'-deer, capture of..... 

Re-pub'-li-can party 

Re sa'-ca 

Re-sa'ca de la Pal'-nia 

Rhcdi Isl'-and 

Ri'-all, General 

Ridgc'-field 

Ring'-gold, Captain 

Ring'-gold, Major 

Ri'-o Gran'-de 

Rip'-ley, General 

Rives, W. C 

Roa'-noke [ro'-nolx] 

Rob'ert-Hon, James 

Rob'-in-son, Rev. John.... 

Ro-cham-beau', Count 

Rodg'-ers, Commodore.... 

Rog'-ers, Major 

Rolfe 

Rose'-crans, General 

Rose, Mr 

Ross, General 

Rush, Ben'-ja-min 

Kus'-sian A-mer-ica 



.34, 



.265, 



380 
181 

463 
459 
390 
400 
431 
235 
151 
178 
347 
, 395 
466 
407 

81 
349 
219 
427 
407 
406 
351 
382 
454 
301 

55 
268 
339 
152 

68 
452 
319 
352 
333 
481 



S. 

Sag-a-da-hoc' Rlv'-er 54 

Sa'-gas of Ice'-land 17 

St. Clair, General 224, 291 

St. Do-min'-go 25, 483 

St. Leg'-er, Colonel 225 

St. Lou'-is 451 

St. Pi-erre' r J9i-ere'] .... 150 

St. Sal'-va-dor 24, 482 

Sa'-lem 100 

Sal-til'-lo 408 

Sam'-o-set 64 

San Fran-cis'-co 417 

San Ju'-an, Isl'and of. 445 

San Sal'-va-dor . 487 

San'-ta An'-na 406, 410, 427 

San'-ta Fe 409 

Sas'-sa-cus 84 

Sa-van'-nah 136, 250 

Say'-brook ,. 79 

Say'-brook Plat'-form 127 

Sayle, Governor 108 

Scan-di-na'-vi-a 14 

Sche-nec'-ta-dy 1*23 

Schuy'-ler, General 225 

Schuy'-ler, Major 124 

Scott, General 350, 391, 410, 426 

Sem'-i-nole War 366 

Se'-vi-er, Colonel John 301 

Shan'-non, frigate 3.38 

Shays, Rebel I'-ion of..... 284 

Sheafe, General 330 

Shel'by, Governor 341 

Shel'-by-ville 461 

Shen-an-do'-ah 458 



INDEX. 



515 



Shep'-ard, General 284 

Sher'-i-diin, (General 464 

Shet'-land Isles 12 

Shields, General 413 

Shi'-loh 456 

Shir'-ley, Governor 154, 156 

Sil'-li-man, General 219 

Sit'-ka 481 

Six Nations 259, 299 

Slav'-er-y 436 

Sli-dell' 453 

Small'-pox 306 

Smith, Captain John 37, 54 

Smith, General 413 

Smith, Joe 438 

Smith'-son, James 392 

Smith-so'-ni-an In-sti-tu'-tion 392 

Smyth, General 330 

So'-to, Fer'-di-uand de 29 

Sou'-le, Fi-erre' 429 

South Car-o-li'-na 108 

Speed'-well 56 

Spott-syl-va'-nia 463 

Squan'-to 67 

Stamp Act 167 

Stan'-dish, Captain Miles 58, 70 

Stark, General 226 

State Rights party 378 

Steam Nav-i-ga'-tion 322 

Ste'-phens, Alexander H 449 

Still'- wa-ter, battle of i. 228 

Stock'-ton, Commodore 401 

Stone, Rev. Mr 83 

Ston'-ino-ton, bombardment of. 348 

Ston'-y Point, Capture of. 257 

Strick'-er, General 353 

Stuy'-ve-sant, Pe'-ter 103 

Sub-treas-u-ry 394, 405 

Sug'-ar Act 166 

Sul'-li-van, General 242 

Sum'-ter, Fort, surrender of. .450, 451 

Swan'-zey 109 

Swe'-den 14 



Ta'-ble Rock 14 

Tam-pi'-co [tam-pee'-ko] 409 

Tar'-ifF, pro-tect'-ive 405 

Tarle'-ton, Colonel 264, 272 

Tax-a'-tion of the Col'-o-nies 165 

Tay'-lor, General 384, 406, 415, 420 

Tea, tax on 179 

Te-cum'-seh 342 

Tel'-e-graph, e-lec'-tric 442 

Ten-nes-see' 801 

Te-nuch-tit'-lan 484 

Ter'-nay, Admiral de 265 

Tex'-as 403 

Thomp'-son, Charles 181 

Thomp'-son, General 383 

Thor'-finn 17 

Thorn'-ton, Captain 407 

Thor'-wald 17 

Ti-con-de-ro'-ga 158 

Tip-pe-ca-noe', battle of .324 

Torap'ldns, Dan'-iel D 365 

To-ron'-to 3.36 

Tor-tu'-ga 484 

Tren'-ton, battle of. 216 

Tri-part'-ite treat'-y 424 



PAGE 

Trip'-o-li 362 

Trip'-o-li, war with 312 

Trum'-buU, Colonel 243, 270 

Tru'-ro 57 

Try'-on, General 252 

Tul-la-ho'-raa 461 

Tu'-nis 362 

Twiggs, General 413 

Tybee' 456 

Ty'-ler, John ,. 397, 398 

u. 

U-chees' 96 

U-nit'-ed States Bank 363, 389, 393, 405 

U-ni- ver '-sal-is ts 127 

Up'-shur, Mr 401 

U-ru guay' 482 

U'-tah 438 



Val'-ley Forge 237 

Val-la-dol'-id 26 

Van Bu'-ren, Mar'-tin 379, 388 

Van-cou'-ver's Isl'-and 479 

Van-Kensse'-la-er, Governor Ste'-phen... 329 

Van Twil'-ler, Wou'-ter 106 

Van Wart, I'-saac 269 

Vane, Governor 81 

Vans Mur'-ray, William 305 

Vas'-co daGa'-ma 14 

A"e'-ga, General de la 407 

Velas'-quez 482 

Ven-e-zu-e'-la 493 

Ve'-ra Cruz 410 

Ver-mont' 189, 290 

Ver-ra-za'-ni 28 

Ves-pu'-ci-us, A-mer'-i-cus 27, 489 

Vicks'-burg „ 461 

Vic-to'-ria, Queen 451 

Vill'-iers, Count de 152 

Vin'-land 16 

Vir-gin'-ia, 451 

W. 

Wads'-worth, Captain 112, 124 

Walk'-er, William 431 

War'-ren, Commodore 138 

War'-ren, General 194 

War'-ring-ton, Commander 347 

War with Great Brit'-ain, 1812 325 

Wash'-iug-ton, George, 

149, 197, 210, 280, 287, 296, 306 

Wash'-ing-ton city 308 

Wash'-ing-ton city, capture of 352 

Wash'-ing-ton, John 440 

Wash'-ing-ton Ter'-ri-tory 445 

Wasp, capture of. 331 

Wa'-ter-town 79 

Wa'-ter-house, Dr 306 

Wayne, General 257, 299 

Weath'-er-ford, In'-dian chief 345 

Web'-ster, Dan'-iel 399, 422, 424 

West, Ben'-ja-min 270 

West In'-dies 482 

Weath'-ers-field 79 

Wey'-mouth 70 

Wey'-mouth, Captain 53 

Wheel'-wright, John 118 

Whi'-dah, pirate ship 134 

Whig party 396 



516 



IND 



PAOE 

Wliis'-key Tn-sur-rec'-tion. 299 

White, l^er'-e-2;rino 58 

Wliite P]am5,1battle of. 213 

■\Vkit'-field, Kev. George 128 

"NVir kin-son 291 

Wil'-kin-son, General 343, 848 

Will'iam and Ma'-ry's Col'-lege 128 

Will'-iams-burg 149, 458 

'NVill'-ianis, Da'-vid 269 

A\ ill'- lams, Kog'-er 80 

Wil'-mot, Da'-vid 416 

Wil'-mot pro-vi'-so 416 

Win'-ches-ter, General 334 

Win'-der, General 352 

Wing'-field, Pres'-i-dent 35 

Wins'-low, General 156 

Wins'-low, Mr 65 

Win'-throp, John 74 

Wip'-ple, Captain 178 

Wis-con'-sin 414 

Witch'-craft 100 

Wol'-cott, Ol'-i-ver 302 

Wolfe, General 160 



\ ' ' PAGE 

Wol'-las-ton, Mount .\...jj.y„^rr'.. 71 

Wood'-lbrd, General 221 

Wool, General 391, 413 

Woos'-ter, General 219 

Worth, General 413 

Wy'-att, Thom'-as 68 

Wy'-o-ming, inas'-sa-cre of. 245 

Y. 

Yale Col'-lege 128 

Yam-a-sees' 134 

Yel'-low fe'-ver 307 

Yeo'-mans, Sir James 108 

Yo-a-co-mo'-co 77 

York, capture of. 335 

York, Duke of. 103 

York'-town, siege of 276 

Young, Brig'-ham 439 

Young, Captain 275 

Z. 
Zol'-li-cof-fer, General 454 



THE END. 




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LIBRARY OF CONGRESS 




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